LIB RARY OF CO NGRESS. 

©^^i^w^io 

shelf S3.4 A 35" 

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 




ARTOT>PE, E BIERSTADT, M. V . 



THE 



ITINERANT ON 




OR, 



LIFE-SCENES RECALLED. 



By JOHN SCARLETT, 

OF THE NEWARK ANNUAL CONFERENCE. 

WITH AN INTRODUCTION, 
BY 

REV. GEORGE HUGHES. 



I will speak of the glorious honor of Thy majesty, and of Thy wondrous 
works. — Psalm cxlv. 5. 



ybJs&S 7 



W. C. PALMER, 
62 and 64 Bible House, New York. 




COPYRIGHT, 

W. C. PALMER, 
1882. 



INTRODUCTION. 



Christian Biography is a rich treasure. It magnifies 
the grace of Christ, reveals the precious offices of the Holy 
Spirit, and demonstrates the unrivaled potency of evangel- 
ical religion. It furnishes varied and lofty themes for the 
intelligent student, and may well engage the profound 
thought of the true philosopher. It charms the devout 
mind, relieves the doubting and perplexed, cheers the 
solitary, conforts the afflicted, and inspirits the dis- 
heartened, among Christ's followers. Every page is re- 
splendent with unearthly attractions. 

The arrest of the guilty soul by the Eternal Spirit's al- 
mighty grip — the agony, tears, and pleadings of penitence at 
Mercy's Throne — the triumphal passage of the strait gate, 
and the joyous entrance upon the narrow way of eternal 
life — the grand developments of character in the pilgrimage 
heavenward — and the ultimate entrance upon the bliss of 
immortal destiny — these are among its munificent con- 
tributions to the realm of evangelical literature. The 
Church should prize, immeasurably, these gifts of the roll- 
ing years of Christian history. The burning pages, glow- 
ing with divine love, should be scattered broadcast — to 
illumine, beautify, and empower. It would be a measure- 
less disaster if the "Satanic press," with its myriad vile 
emanations, should supplant the pure and elevating com- 
munications of the religious press. The study of God's 
ambassador, the Sabbath School Library, and the parlor 
tables of God's people, should teem with these productions. 
God's luminous and ineffaceable signature has been upon 



iv 



INTRODUCTION. 



them in all the ages of Christianity. Let the li r e-annals of 
God's heroes, then, have the right of way — a revival of holy 
literature is one of the great needs of the times. 

A brief word respecting the present volume will suffice. 
It modestly presents its claims to the public favor, especi- 
ally of the lovers of Jesus. Its author is well known, as 
a reputable member of the "Newark," formerly of the 
' ' New Jersey Annual Conference, of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church." And, by quite extended public labors, and 
contributions to the religious press, many beyond his im- 
mediate ministerial connections have become familiar with 
his name and enshrined him in their hearts. 

The narrative of these passages is startling and impress- 
ive. It furnishes an argument in favor of the divine orgin 
and transforming energy of Christianity, which neither 
Satanic subtlety, nor human sophistry can overthrow. 

The rescue from infidel darkness and thraldom, as here 
given, is marvelous. Deep, thorough, all-comprehensive 
repentance — a palpable, jo3^ous, triumphant conversion — 
after-life full of the sunshine from heaven — are the sub- 
jects presented. Brother Scarlett commenced his Chris- 
tian career in sunshine, emphatically so — his life has been 
passed in the beauteous rays of the 11 Sun of righteous- 
ness " — and he will ere long die in sunshine, without an 
intervening cloud. Now, with the impress of almost eighty 
years upon his brow, his face is "bright with borrowed 
rays divine." His feet stand firmly on the Rock of 
Ages. The subject of his hourly converse is, " Jesus only" — 
Jesus and His mighty love. The verities which are eternal 
fill the whole compass of his vision. 

My acquaintance with him began in 1844, at the time 
of my admission into the New Jersey Conference — then, the 
golden links of a true, life-long Christian love were riveted. 
It is a joy to be near him on earth — it will be joy unutter- 
able to be with him in heaven, — which may God grant for 
Jesus' sake ! The book is sent forth in praj^er and faith, and 
in the hope that it will bear blessing, far and wide, long after 
its author sleeps with Jesus. 

GEO. HUGHES. 



PREFACE. 



The following pages were not written with a sen- 
sational purpose, nor to excite to deeds of ignoble 
strife. They do not contain tales of shuddering 
horror, pictures of blood-drops staining bright and 
burnished steel — of deadly duel-fights, or on battle 
fields in war. They are a simple record of facts, 
incidents, experiences, and observations of busy mem- 
ory's gathering up, through the course of a long and 
active life. 

This volume contains original matter. It has been 
prepared with a motive to benefit the reader. The 
author was prompted to write his autobiography by 
the advice of numerous friends. The first and strongest 
incitement in this direction, he received in a letter 

[V] 



vi 



PREFACE. 



from the late Mrs. Phoebe Palmer, by which she urged 
him to give to the world an account of his life. 

This unadorned portraiture of his early life-scenes, 
and a walking itinerancy for many years, has features 
of both solemnity and cheerfulness — of tears, and 
smiles, and gladness. While it is designed to have no 
other tendency than such as leads to Christ and ' 1 pure 
religion," it may produce in the reader's mind, some- 
times, emotions not in sympathy with gloomy associa- 
tions. Why should faith in Jesus be draped in mourn- 
ing? Some people look sour because they profess 
faith in Christ, and "have joined the Church." They 
would paint religion as a " Niobe, all tears." It is 
far otherwise, however, when rightly appreciated. Jesus 
instructs his followers to be "not of a sad counte- 
nance." Purity of heart should not distort the "human 
face divine." 

May "The Itinerant on Foot" go on a message 
of mercy and "good will to men," is the sincere 
desire and prayer of 

The Author. 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER PAGE 

Introduction by Rev. George Hughes 3 

Author's Preface . 5 

I. Infant Days and Early Memories g 

II. Boyhood's Training for Manhood's Career 35 

III. Bad Tendencies of Nature and' Self. — Good 

Convictions from Grace and Truth 56 

IV. First Christian Experiences 77 

V. Walking in the Light.— Call to Preach 103 

VI Commencement of Itinerant Life 135 

VII. Itinerancy on Foot, Continued 151 

VIII. Abundant. Labors, Trials and Triumphs.... 175. 
IX. Working for the Master. — Cheering Results.. 192 

X. The Gospel of the Kingdom. — Life and Power, 209 

XI. God in the Itinerancy 228 

XII. Closing Itinerant Labors. — Sunshine in Retire- 
ment 240 

[vii] 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



CHAPTER I. 

INFANT DAYS AND EARLY MEMORIES. 

" Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth." 
— Eccles. xii. i. 

Memory in man is a faculty of early devel- 
opment, and of rapid growth. In life's dewy 
morning it is pleasant in its exercise, and re- 
tentive in its grasp. With age, its light dimin- 
ishes, and its wings realize decaying strength. 
This, if memory with the righteous should not 
survive the grave, in after-death realities, would 
be regretful. 

[9] 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



" For who, to dumb forgetfulness a prey, 

This pleasing anxious being e'er resigned, 
Left the warm precincts of the cheerful day, 
Nor cast one longing, lingering look behind ?" 

Things impressed upon the senses, during 
the tender years of childhood, are more vividly 
perceived and remembered than more important 
events seen, heard, and experienced in after life. 
Early ideas are remembered the longest. 

"Time, but the impression stronger makes 
As streams their channels deeper wear." 

On April 30th, 1803, in a rural, sequestered 
spot, Morris county, New Jersey, I first saw the 
light. Two years after, I was, with a younger 
brother, removed by my parents to Wanaque, 
Pompton township, Bergen county, in the 
same State. In this pleasant valley, with its ro- 
mantic surroundings, I spent fifteen years of 
my young life. I was gifted by nature with a 
good memory, and can recall incidents that oc- 
curred when I was but three years of age. I 
have strong temptations to make record of 
trifling things, too insignificant for the public 
eye, yet, to me, pleasant to remember. 



INFANT DAYS. 



II 



My young life is pleasant, in my recollec- 
tions, though excluded from every attraction 
that wealth could supply. In the midst of wood- 
ed scenery and wildness I found ravishing de- 
Light. I have always retained a fondness for 
the country. I had a fancy and liking for views 
of far-off mountains, hills, dales, glens, and 
gorges. Leafy trees, in summer, and fields of 
red clover, with their accompanying birds and 
bees, gave me unforgotten pleasure. These 
were photographed on my infant mind. I was 
charmed at the sight of a flowery meadow, or 
sunny landscape, although I did not know what 
to call them. The gentle slope, kissed by the 
morning sun — the green valleys and " lilies of 
the field" — the millions of pearly drops of 
morning dew, gave me emotions not to be de- 
scribed. The blossoming orchards in the sun- 
light — the fragrance of flowers — the passing 
shadows of summer clouds — the gurgling 
mountain-stream, and balmy zephyrs, that fanned 
my sun-burned face, I never can forget. I also 
had a keen sense of the ridiculous. This has 
never left me ; it abides with me still. 



T2 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



My moral sensibilities were tender. I was 
the subject of the convictions of right and 
wrong at an early period. While quite young, 
I thought on God, and dreaded his displeasure. 
Do not children, in general, have spiritual im- 
pressions ? I was regarded by my parents as a 
truthful child ; yet, I sometimes deviated in my 
conduct from the line of honest-thinking and 
right words. Once, during a thunder-storm, the 
lightning struck near by, apparently, as it was 
followed quickly by a thunder-peal. I stated to 
my father that I saw the bolt strike the river 
before our door, causing the water to fly up. 
Now, I saw no such thing. I had no motive to 
deceive ; but my young imagination sought to 
cause in my father wonderment, concerning the 
elements. After that I feared the lightning, or 
God, who wrings it. Was it not Satanic influ- 
ence on my fallen nature, inciting me, that gave 
my mind a bias against the love of truth, on that 
occasion ? The increased dread of thunder and 
lightning, giving me a fear of God, cannot be 
truly accounted for but by the acknowledgment 
of the operation of the Holy Spirit on my con- 



INFANT DAYS. 



13 



science Two opposite agencies strove with me : 
the one, heart-hardening, leading to sin ; the 
other, leading to penitence and the fear of God. 
My fallen nature was " prone to evil, as the 
sparks are to fly upward." Inbred sin drew 
down the moral and mental powers, and bound 
them to the animal propensities, and gave the 
carnal an ascendency over the spiritual. This 
is the case with all children, however favorable 
their situation on earth. 

The experiences I realized during the years 
of my youth, have a tendency to confirm me in 
the firm faith I enjoy in the Gospel. The true 
teachings of the Word are needed, appropriate, 
and never misleading. Children are both fallen 
and redeemed. They are subject to Satanic in- 
fluence, and the strivings of grace. They are 
indebted to grace, for good desires ; and temp- 
tations to sin are from the devil. These truths 
of "Holy Writ," should be taught them early. 

My father was fond of children, and he took 
great pleasure in gratifying their innocent 
wishes as far as possible. His social qualities 
were attractive, His company was agreeable to 



14 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



the intelligent. He taught school the most of 
his life, in America. He was an Irishman. The 
young loved his society. He would play, at 
times of recess, with his scholars. He loved to 
narrate to attentive listeners the incidents met 
with in his travels. He was thought to be a 
real genial Irishman. After coming to this 
country and residing in the city of Philadelphia 
for a season, he went to Alexandria, Virginia, 
and was clerk for a Mr. Penrose, in a large 
establishment. Here, he saw George Wash- 
ington, the father of his country, whom he 
greatly admired. The first piece of poetry he 
instructed me to commit to memory, to recite in 
school, was 

Washington. 

" O Washington ! thrice glorious name I 
What due reward can man decree ? 

Empires are far below thy aim, 

And scepters have no charms for thee ; 

Virtue alone is thy regard, 

And she shall be thy great reward !" 

Washington, no doubt, w T as designed by 
Providence for the position he occupied and the 



INFANT DAYS. 



*5 



work he accomplished for the well-being of this 
Land of Freedom. Yet, the eulogy above is 
rather too high to award to mortal man. My 
father taught me wholesome lessons, profitably 
remembered in long-after life. I sometimes dis- 
obeyed him, to my hurt. I disliked to incur his 
displeasure. Once, during recess, I was amus- 
ing myself alone, as oft was my wont, saunter- 
ing carelessly about, a short distance from the 
school-house, I picked up a stone about the size 
of a black walnut, with the motive of testing 
my strength and skill, in throwing it over the 
highest branches of a wide-spreading tree. 
With ambition I watched its motion in a curving 
line until it fell on the opposite side. A lady 
unhappily stood where it fell ; and she was 
struck on the head, and stunned with the blow. 
I did not know she was there, or the stone would 
not have been hurled. Hidden by the branches 
of the tree, I did an unintentional wrong. 
When I saw her lying on the ground, thinking 
she was killed, I had great grief, and I was de- 
termined to confess the truth. The scholars, 
seeing the prostrate form of the injured lady, 



i6 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



ran into the school-room ; and the most noted 
for mischief was accused of the deed. I hast- 
ened in, walking up directly to my father's desk, 
pulling off my jacket, the while, confessing the 
stone-throwing act, desiring chastisement of no 
boy but myself. I could not bear an innocent 
person to be punished for what I had done. My 
father looked at me, divested as I was for a 
thrashing, and his sympathy was kindled. Ap- 
plying his handkerchief to his " dewy eyes," he 
said, "John, I cannot whip you; your honest 
behavior will not allow me." I was not pun- 
ished ; and my father had increased confidence 
in me ; and this, also, increased my sense of ob- 
ligation to do right in everything. It is good, 
if possible, to put confidence in the word of a 
child, and let him be aware of it. In a spiritual 
sen^e it is good for us sinners to be honest with 
God ; to take off all covering, as I did my jacket, 
and say to God, " I did it !" with an open, uncov- 
ered heart and conscience. Then, " if we con- 
fess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive 
us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unright- 
eousness," 



INFANT DAYS. 



17 



I contracted a fondness for reading while 
quite a small boy, and this habit has never left 
me. During winter nights, between the supper- 
hour and bed-time, I read my book. I was not 
favored with the electric light, gas, or even 
candle light. A huge " back-log," "fore-stick," 
and a pile of dry wood and chips between them, 
afforded me light ; and I took advantage of the 
times. I love to think of those halcyon days. 
There I sat, a sun-burned urchin, on a block, 
sawed on purpose from the trunk of a tree, be- 
fore the "olden time" fireplace, that would hold 
the eighth of a cord of wood ! My memory 
ransacks that " Chimney Corner," for tales of 
yore. There my studies commenced. "The art 
of letters," and the science of many things were 
touched and held at finger ends. Stories, nar- 
ratives, adventures, and " hair-breadth-scapes," 
stirred my pleasurable new-born thoughts, 
" Robinson Crusoe," and the "Arabian Nights," 
entertained me for a season. 

" O, once again, who would not be a boy ?" 

In my early life, as I have already noticed, 
I was charmed with the beauties of nature ; 



iS 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



and reading intensified this native taste. Had I 
enjoyed scholastic advantages, I might have 
made something — but no more of this. The 
wild and varied scenes that passed in review, 
expanded somewhat my mind and helped to de- 
velop imagination. The colors of beautiful 
flowers affected me, in reading of them, as they 
had in seeing them. Fancy is a help in reading. 
To read of a flash of lightning suddenly driv- 
ing midnight darkness from an orchard white 
with blossoms in the month of June, will make 
it appear to imagination in pleasing contrast. 
Is not the sense of the beautiful in man a soul 
sense ? an indication of the spirituality of his 
nature? Animals do not feed on flowers. They 
have no interest in the "sublime and beautiful." 
Fragrance yields to them no pleasure. The in- 
stinctive tribes are not charmed with the fresh 
beauties of the morning, nor the gorgeous gold 
and purple in the clouds around the setting sun. 
What do they care for the views of mountains, 
rivers, lakes, and " the dark blue sea " ? The 
taste for such beauties is peculiar to the human 
soul, and their essential properties in the world 



INFANT DAYS. 



r 9 



of final bliss will not be remembered, merely, as 
having belonged exclusively to earth. Heaven 
will unfold beauties that here are typified. God, 
consistent with this notion, has produced these 
things to induce a suitable exercise of our men- 
tal, moral, and spiritual powers, leading us to 
think of Him, and His bright abode. 

Will these natural things of beauty, which 
are the means, not the source, of pleasurable 
emotions to the souls of men, especially Chris- 
tians, not be continued to the saved beyond the 
grave? Or will not the glorified millions meet 
something like them that they here and now 
point to on the ever-green shore ? God will 
surely, in all His works and ways, be consistent 
with Himself. By Him, there is nothing made 
in vain, nor ever will be. 

The impressions made on the minds of chil- 
dren, before their consciences become indurated 
by resisting the spirit of God, are of vital im- 
portance. " Train up a child in the way he 
should go, and when he is old he will not de- 
part from it." I had no Sunday-school advan- 
tages ; I heard no Christian experiences related. 



20 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



All the religion professed where I resided 
seemed to consist of mere opinions. 

Both my father and mother were much in 
the habit of Bible reading, yet knew nothing of 
experimental religion. They were, however, 
uncommonly severe on all types of infidelity. 
My father would sometimes, with great earnest- 
ness, say: "John, you must never suffer your- 
self to doubt the Bible." How often I have 
since thought of his advice ! He would, when 
requested, read the Word of God at the bedside 
of the sick. He would say to them, in serious 
conversation and much solemnity, " God is 
gracious and very merciful." He would read 
prayers, but I never heard him pray orally. He 
was of Episcopalian persuasion ; and in his 
school he taught us the catechism every Satur- 
day. He was thought to be a good school- 
teacher. He had appreciation of the good and 
the true in morals, was always fond of poetry, 
and indulged in versifying at times, when in the 
mood. He was an Arminian in religious senti- 
ment. My mother was a Calvinist of the most 
rigid kind. They both cherished a dislike to- 



INFANT DAYS. 



21 



ward Methodism. They held erroneous opin- 
ions concerning that great revival of " Christi- 
anity in earnest." Haters of that which is good 
had given false or distorted descriptions of 
Methodism, and they, with many others, had 
been deceived. Correct accounts of pure re- 
ligion can be expected of Christians only. 

The news of a sudden death, in the neighbor- 
hood, had a powerful influence upon me. The 
first corpse I ever saw made a deep impression 
on my mind. Something whispered within me, 
that death was not the final goal of thinking man ! 
A life was in my conscious being, I thought, that 
could not die ! Immortality within, echoed to the 
voice of the striving " Spirit of Truth !" 

The love of strong drink extensively pre- 
vailed, unchecked by temperance principles publicly 
announced. It was customary at funerals to treat • 
all that attended. This, no doubt, increased the 
gatherings on such occasions, when almost all 
would partake of the intoxicating beverage ; 
and it was a common thing for ministers of the 
gospel to take a dram when visiting the sick. 
The Christian churches certainly have made im- 
provement as to their social customs. 



22 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



Some of the scenes of the war of 1812, be- 
tween the United States and Great Britain, are 
yet by me distinctly remembered. I was but 
nine years old, and realized the influence of u the 
war " upon me in two opposite ways. The 
slain and wounded on the battle-field, as rumor 
did from time to time report, and of which I 
read the account ; and the drafting of men, 
which I saw, and the " dreadful note of prepa- 
ration " by uniformed soldiery, with the ominous 
"flag of stars and stripes," 

" E'er yet the life-blood, warm and wet, 
Had dimm'd the glistening bayonet," 

made me nervous and sad. And yet I delighted 
in military display : the measured tread of 
marching companies ; their uniforms, banners, 
plumes, and glittering steel ; their martial music 
of " ear-piercing-fife " and "stirring drum"; 
their parade-grounds of grassy green ; and the 
gathering multitudes of spectators of men, 
women and children, all arrayed in their best 
attire, gave me pleasurable emotions. Even the 
child has something in his nature that re- 
sponds to the taste of "cruel war." 



INFANT DAYS. 



2 3 



The battle of New Orleans, triumphantly 
fought by General Andrew Jackson, on the 8th of 
January, 1815, was hailed with unbounded re- 
joicings. The peace proclaimed gave universal 
satisfaction. The soldiers that had survived the 
war, being disbanded, came home worse than 
they left. They were demoralized, reckless, 
idle and intemperate, and business was dull. It 
was hard to get a living. War brings in its 
train many evils. When will its bloody work 
cease ? For some time after the close of the 
war, it was hard getting along for poor people. 
One day, while I was thinking of these things, 
looking out from our little home on the side of 
the mountain, I saw a cloud in the south-west, 
moving rapidly to meet another cloud coming 
toward it. They met and twisted together in 
the form of a funnel. It was a tornado, of tre- 
mendous force. It broke off trees near the 
ground, more than a foot in diameter ; and lift- 
ed large rails high in air instantly. I saw it and 
thought of the greatness of God's power, in 
a way not easily to be forgotten. 

My ambition for fame was checked while I 



24 THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



was yet a boy. One sunny day in mid-winter* 
during school recess at noon, I, with a number 
of boys and girls, thought it good to have a 
pleasant sleigh-ride down a steep hill that would 
land us on a wide field of ice. I was the fore- 
most one in this exciting matter, and had pro- 
cured for the purpose " a one-horse sleigh." I 
claimed the post of danger and sat in front. 
The sleigh was filled to its utmost capacity. It 
moved along for a while gracefully, with its 
heart-beating load, on the smooth and frozen sur- 
face of the snow. Our course was toward the 
south-east, and the snow had softened near the 
foot of the hill, and let down our sleigh sudden- 
ly before it reached the ice. I was thrown for- 
ward and the whole party fell on me, crushing 
in the frontal bone over my left eye, leaving a 
scar that I shall carry until I "shuffle off this 
mortal coil." I have never since felt uncommon 
ambition to be at the head of adventurous enter- 
prises. Wholesome mental impressions on the 
brain I have ever found preferable to crack-scull 
embarkations in a downward course of life ! 
In the year 1816, my schooling was brought 



INFANT DAYS. ^5 

to a close, my father teaching at a distance from 
home, and I was bound, according to my own 
desire, to a farmer for three years, to work for 
my clothes and board. I was shown my bed- 
room, where I found an antiquated chest for my 
use. When I raised the lid, while disposing of 
my wardrobe in proper order, I discovered some 
silver change, lying loosely in it. I took it out 
and gave it to the farmer's wife. A short time 
after my father came to see me ; and I overheard 
him and the farmer in conversation about me. 
The farmer informed him that I had been tried, 
and was found honest. Was it not an impru- 
dent thing to place a temptation before a boy ? 
Some dishonest person might have taken that 
money, and my character would have been 
stained. 

I " endured hardness " during my stay with 
the farmer — working in the winter, sometimes 
in the woods a distance from home, chopping 
wood. I wore no flannel under-garments, and 
stayed out all day, and my fare was rye bread 
and pork and beef ; my toil was hard. I do not 
speak of this with feelings of regret. My early 



26 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



rising, plain diet and exercise made me more 
strong in bone and muscle, if not in brain. My 
clothing was all of home-made stuff. I earned 
and was paid three shillings for over-work, and 
kept it two years before it was all spent. 

In my fourteenth year I first saw the city of 
New York, accompanying the farmer's son, with 
a wagon-load of poultry seeking a market. 
New York, sixty years ago, was a small town 
to what it is now. A dense cloud of smoke 
hung over it from the burning of pine wood. 
This was the only fuel used, and its odor spread 
for miles around. " Greenwich street " was then 
the nearest street to the North River. Jersey 
City (called then Paulus' Hook) did not seem to 
contain more than a score of houses. Many 
acres of the meadows between Newark and 
New York were covered with a dense growth of 
cedar ; it was called the " Cedar Swamp" This 
ride from home and back w r as to me a great 
treat ; and having seen New York, I had it to 
think and talk about. It was a novel enterprise, 
as much so as the circumnavigation of the globe 
to some. 



INFANT DAYS. 



27 



Things often occur during our childhood 
which aptly illustrate circumstances that take 
place with us in riper years. I have often 
thought of an event that transpired when I was 
a boy, showing some points in the common 
course of men in their journey through life. It 
was part of my work to attend to the cattle. 
During the summer season the cows were 
driven every morning to the woods to browse, 
some considerable distance from home. It fell 
to my charge to go after them every evening. 
One sultry afternoon, I started for the cows 
quite early, but dallied and sauntered along the 
way — unlike my usual habit — until it began to 
be late in the day. The singing of the birds, the 
echoings of various noises among the rocks, 
and the romantic scenery, beguiled the hours 
away, and I was forgetful of the flight of time. At 
length I reached the open place where often be- 
fore the cows had been found. It was a secluded 
spot of a few acres, where once a house had 
been. The remains of the foundation and walls, 
with decayed timber, were yet visible. The 
" Shay Place," it was reported, was haunted. 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



Not within sight or sound of civilization, it was 
a lonely spot ; and that the superstitious should 
regard it as a place to see "sights" and hear 
"noises," was not to be wondered at. I had 
passed the gloomy place where, according to the 
memory of old people, two soldiers of the 
revolutionary war, having died of the small- 
pox, were buried. And I had to pass their graves 
again on that doleful night going home. The 
sun had gone down behind a dark cloud, in 
which slept the lightning. I began to be in a 
gloomy mood. In my solitude I listened to 
hear the familiar bell of the leading cow, but, to 
my ear, no 

" drowsy tinklings lulled the distant fold." 

The cows had all gone home, and I was 
left alone in the woods. A thunder-storm was 
coming on, giving warning of its approach in 
muttering sounds, that were "deep and dread." 
With fearful apprehensions, I was making the 
best of my way for home. " Darkling, I wan- 
der'd with prophetic dread," through the almost 
pathless forest. The thunder-peals increased, in 



INFANT DAYS. 



2 9 



loudness, until they were awful. " The mighty 
thunderings " constituted the bass to the roar of 
the storm that night, and the lightning's glare 
was terrifying in the extreme. I walked on 
with a forlorn hope. Without a path to guide 
me, I wandered, not knowing where I should 
fetch up. I was wet to the skin by the drench- 
ing rain, and my only light was the lightning's 
vivid flash, to be succeeded by a greater dark- 
ness. After walking in this way over rocks 
and through briers, disagreeable, dangerous and 
lonely places, at length the lightning revealed 
to me the old haunted place of departure ! I had 
gone round in a rambling way until I arrived 
as far from home as when I started for it. I 
again set out, hoping that God would be my 
guide. The storm subsided, and, listening for 
the bell, I heard the sound of the "family horn'* 
I knew the sharp sound of that horn, and be- 
lieved it was blown on my behalf. I walked on 
with redoubled perseverance, although hungry 
and wet, carefully following the direction of 
the sound of the familiar horn, and gladly, after a 
while, emerged from the woods. I saw the 



3° 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



road, the river, and the bridge. I saw the 
" orchard, the meadow," and the path through 
it to the dear old home. I walked along, and 
there was the barn, the well '-sweep, and the garden f 
My home came in view, and the family-group 
came about me, and I was welcomed by kind 
and loving friends. Exchange of raiment, and 
a relished supper, made me happy. I had, as it 
were, " beauty for ashes, and the garment of 
praise for the spirit of heaviness." 

In my carelessness, and idle waste of time, I 
became belated, and in consequence storm and 
darkness overtook me. I had an unsuccessful 
adventure to find relief. I went, in my own 
strength, all around the circle, until self led me 
to the same position I tried to start fro?n. How 
like this are the unsuccessful and unprofitable 
wanderings " on the barren mountains of sin," 
of the unregenerate ! They are prodigals in a 
foreign land, feeding on husks. A great storm 
will overwhelm them. They are in a " waste, 
howling wilderness." They will never find their 
way out, unless they hear the Gospel trumpet, 
take timely heed, and walk in accordance with 



INFANT DAYS. 



31 



its gracious directions. And, as I found friends, 
comfort, and joy at home, so will the true be- 
liever be welcomed to heavenly mansions, in 
his Father's house, when his pilgrimage on 
earth is ended. 

After serving for three years with Mr. 
Lines I worked for farmers in Wanaque one year 
longer, making four years in all of my farm 
life. There is no occupation, of a secular kind, 
that I like better than that of the farmer. There 
is not in it so much temptation to dishonesty 
and prevarication, as in many other occupations. 
It is healthy, giving good exercise for all the 
bodily functions, imparts an appetite, affords 
fresh, wholesome food, and sound sleep at night. 
It is favorable, also, to a religious life, giving 
opportunity to see the goodness of God in his 
works. The whole seasons round, the farmer 
has before him such unfoldings, in nature, of 
his Heavenly Father's gracious dealings toward 
him, as to call forth his gratitude and devout 
thanksgiving. He sees, or may see, in his grow- 
ing crops, from year to year, the evidence of the 



3 2 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



wise and good designs of the Almighty Sove- 
reign. 

On the whole, I am not sorry that I had to 
work hard while young, that my parents were 
poor, and that I had not abundant facilities to 
gratify the carnal mind. I might regret, if it 
would do any good, that I did not receive a 
liberal education. That a wise judgment will 
ever highly prize. Better still would it have 
been for me had I experienced religion. Though 
these blessings were denied, yet I have great 
reason to be thankful that God has so ordered 
matters. Hard work and wholesome fare de- 
veloped a good constitution. I never contracted 
an appetite for strong drink or tobacco. I am 
glad I never had any ground of expectation of 
receiving worldly wealth from my parents. Such 
anticipations might have done me injury, in- 
flating me with arrogance, and leaving me 
without the proper energy for self-reliance. 
Children of rich parents sometimes grow up 
with notions that their revenue is inexhaustible, 
notwithstanding their prodigality and extrava- 
gance. Without economy, however, their means 



INFANT DAYS. 



33 



are soon exhausted, leaving sad cases of suffer- 
ers without prudence, industry or enterprise. 

Wanaque is a pleasant valley lying between 
mountains of moderate height, and fertile land. 
God's part of it is beautiful. When I lived there 
I admired patches of white cloud, on clear sum- 
mer days, that would float away, slowly, between 
the mountains and myself. Fifty years afterward, 
when an old man, I visited the place, and it was 
my pleasure to observe the white clouds again. 
It seemed to me that they came in my view to 
remind me of the days of my boyhood. Much 
wickedness prevailed while I lived in the place. 
It might be said of many places, as well as of 
this : — 

"Where every prospect pleases, 
And only man is vile." 

On visiting the place half a century after- 
wards, I found great improvements. The rustic 
rudeness, in the construction of dwellings, the 
roads, and everything else, except the face of 
nature, had given place to the style of modern 
art. 



34 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



But, customs and evil habits, to a great ex- 
tent, are often perpetuated in society. As were 
the parents, so are the children, in many things. 
How important, for posterity, that a good ex- 
ample should be set, by those living in the 
present. Surely, u no man liveth to himself." 
Our seed-sowing influence will grow a crop, in 
the future, either for good or evil, that will 
be reaped not merely in this world but also in 
the world to come. And it should not be over- 
looked, that the " common people," who " heard 
Jesus gladly," are the " bone and sinew" of 
human society. We should not, therefore, 
neglect — 

"The short and simple annals of the poor." 



CHAPTER II. 



YOUTHFUL TRAINING. 

"Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? 
By taking heed thereto according to thy word." — Psalm 
cxix. 9. 

Youth is an important stage of human life. 
The beginning, in the molding of moral char- 
acter, is like laying the foundation of a house, 
on the firmness of which will depend the 
solidity of the building, — other things being 
equal. When the moral thinking is falsely based, 
and started in a wrong direction, there will be a 
suffering of loss, if not ruin. The social prin- 
ciple is of vital importance. Mankind are 
bound together by it while mortal life lasts. If 
flint and steel could both think • and speak, 
under certain striking social conditions, they 
would, mutually, congratulate each other for 
the brilliant sparks elicited. 

[35] 



36 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



Every career in human life, every act of 
moral responsibility, is shaping us for im- 
mortal destiny. Between the years of seven- 
teen and twenty-one is an auspicious period, 
looking to vast consequences. Much, through 
the whole life, is often gauged by that molding 
period. ''Train up a child in the way he should 
go, and when he is old he will not depart from 
it," is a lesson of Scripture not sufficiently 
heeded. Early life devoted to God should be 
thought of, remembered, and obeyed. Young 
life is like new soil, it should be cared for, cul- 
tivated and watched, before it is overgrown with 
noxious weeds. It is like the morning in spring- 
time. It is beautiful and lovely in its bloom and 
fragrance. 

"Then all can charm, for all is new." 

In early manhood, life is unburdened with 
care, is full oj: ambition and hope. The memory 
is developing and retentive. And the mind and 
heart are receiving impressions that may fix the 
moral character. See the plant and flower in 
their vernal freshness, glittering with the dew of 



Youthful training. 



37 



their youth. Many promises are for the hope- 
ful young. "They that seek me early shall find 
me." Parents sometimes wish to lay up fortunes 
for their children, but there is no fortune equal 
to a real Christian experience and character. 

In the spring of the year 1820 I began to re- 
alize the need and propriety of some perma- 
nent occupation. The time had come for me to 
leave childish things, and to think of taking care 
of myself. I loved my surroundings of native 
woods and valleys, with their brooks and birds - 
but I must bid adieu to familiar rural scenes. I 
determined to learn a trade. To be a printer was 
my strongest desire, but in this choice I was 
not to be gratified. My thirst for reading was 
destined to suffer — 

"There is a divinity that shapes our ends, 
Rough-hew them as we will." 

I was bound by my father for four years to a 
" cordwainer," as an apprentice. The lowly trade 
of shoemaker has been honored by at least two 
names that will not soon be forgotten, viz. : the 
metaphysician, Samuel Drew, of England; and the 



38 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



Hon. Roger Sherman, of our own United States. 
In their case the shoemaker's bench became 
indeed the seat of profound learning and useful 
culture. During my apprenticeship I contracted 
no bad habits, as many do. I applied myself to 
reading, during leisure hours, as much as pos- 
sible. I made many a shoe while my mind was 
taken up, almost wholly, with another subject ; 
never, however, becoming an expert at the busi- 
ness. 

Newark, N.J., which now became my home, 
was always a pleasant place to me, lying within 
a charmed circle. The day I started for it to 
make it my future residence I can never forget. 
It was on the seventeenth day of April, 1820, 
when I first saw it, after walking about 
twenty miles, driving a cow ! It was a pleasant 
day, and I enjoyed it much. I was dressed in 
my best, a suit of coarse cloth, and my home- 
spun clothes tied up in a cotton handkerchief. 
Newark, then, was a country town, with few 
foreign-born inhabitants, and no stores open 
on the Sabbath day for the sale of groceries 
and merchandise. Travel by steam, human 



YOUTHFUL TRAINING. 



39 



speech by lightning, limning by sunlight, were 
things then unknown. Nor had the telephone 
warbled its echoing song to distant multitudes 
gathered at its bidding, 

" Over the hills and far away." 

I had a number of reasons for being pleased 
with Newark, and one was, the religious privi- 
leges furnished. Although I felt myself to be a 
wicked sinner, I had a secret under-tone of 
thought that I would become good some day. I 
heard Rev. Joseph Lybrand preach in " Wesley 
Chapel" Halsey street. He was a man of won- 
derful power in the pulpit, and the first Metho- 
dist preacher I ever heard. Trembling convic- 
tion, on account of sin, seized me at once. I 
was deeply wrought upon. On Monday morn- 
ing, after my fellow-apprentice had left the bed- 
room where we slept, I staid behind with 
the intention of beginning a new life, by pray- 
ing to God to have mercy on me I kneeled 
down with my face toward the window. I had 
not been long on my knees before I realized a 



40 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



pleasant state of mind, as though God had an- 
swered my prayer. I felt relieved of oppressive 
heaviness of heart. I was near the blessing, I 
thought ; and as I looked out of the window on 
an open field of snow I fancied it was beauti- 
ful. The snow was crusted over, and its glazed 
surface glittered in the morning sun. White 
and pure, it inspired thoughts of God and his 
purity. It feasted my imagination, at least, while 
my heart was praying. While in this situation, 
the eldest apprentice, suspecting my seriousness, 
entered the room, and caught me up and carried 
me into the shop, exclaiming, " See here, in this 
posture I caught him praying to his God, 
brethren !" at the same time using some profane 
words, and laughing, in which they all joined. 
The persecution that followed drove me in the 
wrong way. Similar cases, no doubt, there have 
been to discourage young people, and they have 
been hindered. I would not forget to mention 
the fact, that the apprentice who thus treated me 
subsequently became deeply pious himself. 

Some time after this incident, I was induced 
to attend a prayer-meeting, for the first time, 



YOUTHFUL TRAINING. 



41 



held in a private dwelling in Market street. My 
mind was again aroused to the importance of 
being right with God. The meeting was held 
in the second story, and was led by a Methodist 
by the name of George Shannon. An upper and 
under-door opened into the hall. I entered the 
room, which was crowded; boards were laid 
across chairs for seats. A hymn was sung, and 
all kneeled in prayer but myself. I felt ashamed 
to be the only one not willing to humble myself. 
The next prayer found me also on my knees. 
The Spirit touched my heart immediately. O, 
how I felt the need of religion ! After the 
meeting was dismissed, a man by the name of 
Theodore Walker took me by the hand, and spoke 
kind words to me. He was impressive in his 
manner, telling me not to stifle my convictions. 
Leaning over the under-door, he bade me good- 
night, with a tender and kindly look I can never 
forget. How often I have thought of that Sab- 
bath evening ! 

As I turned from my friend, in going home, 
my imagination was active. It was snowing, 
and the large flakes, falling softly and slowly 



42 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



through the dusky air, laid themselves quietly 
on the walk like a white carpet. How much 
the state of the mind and heart has to do in giv- 
ing impressions of outward appearances ! The 
landscape, from an eminence, on a bright May 
morning, looks more cheering and inspiring to 
an agriculturist, poet or artist, than to a con- 
demned criminal awaiting his execution. The 
mind makes its own world. It would be im- 
possible for even God to make a blissful, happy 
paradise for ungodly beings. The moral state 
must be adapted to the place. Had I believed 
in Christ, " with a heart unto righteousness," I 
might have been saved from that hour, and 
avoided unnecessary suffering. 

About this time " Young's Night Thoughts " 
arrested my attention, and gave me pleasure and 
profit. I had heard my father highly recom- 
mend the work, and therefore took more inter- 
est in the reading of it. 

I was delighted in listening to eloquent 
speakers, and among the most remarkable 
preachers I ever heard was Rev. John Sum?ner- 
field. This was in 1822 ; I heard him twice. I 



YOUTHFUL TRAINING. 



43 



cannot describe him. His eloquence was be- 
yond criticism. He was not at all eccentric. 
His person was of slender-build and medium 

' height. His form was handsome, though deli- 
cate in appearance. His well-shaped head w T as 
large, with hair slightly curling. His mouth 
was also large. His eyes were full and blue. 
All his features were in his favor as an orator. 
His gestures were natural and graceful ; they 
manifested his sincerity and earnestness. His 
voice was not of great compass, yet distinctly 
heard. It had heart-touching tones. His lan- 
guage flowed from him in a spontaneous stream. 
The late Bishop Janes sometimes reminded me 
of Summerfield, in his tender and pathetic 
moods. Summerfield w T as a genuine Christian 

. and a model preacher of the Gospel. He had 
been soundly converted and had the witness of 
the Spirit to his adoption. He was consecrated 
to God, and enjoyed fulness of salvation. His 
experience in divine things was extensive. He 
had passed through an ordeal of uncommon 
suffering. He had, like the great Master, 
"learned obedience by the things that he 



44 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



suffered." By the law, he knew sin's " exceed- 
ing sinfulness." He was not ignorant of Satan's 
devices. He knew the blessed Christ, and hence 
his extraordinary influence over his hearers. 
While nature had done much for him, so that 
his talents would have been acknowledged any- 
where, grace had abounded to make him such 
an eminent minister. There was about him a 
joyous solemnity that could not be accounted 
for on any other principle than great grace. He. 
had the gift of power, and gave me impressions 
never to be effaced. 

Musing on the sainted Summerfield, I wrote 
the following stanzas : — 

SUMMERFIELD. 

I heard but twice the famous Summerfield, 

The young, the gifted, lovely, noble, brave ! 
His genius was the best of nature's yield, 

His strength was given by " The Strong to Save." 
O'er him Love's banner did triumphant wave ; 

His solemn features did, — portentous, — say, 
" I am not long to be this side the grave, 

Short here will be my missionary stay — 
My work is for reward, at Heaven's crowning day." 



YOUTHFUL TRAINING. 



45 



He went, a flaming herald, through the land ; 

And God was with him, wheresoe'er he went, 
Discharging faithfully his Lord's command, 

To tens of thousands on the continent ; 
For this great purpose was this herald sent, 

His implements were skilfully applied, 
His bow was strained, by keeping too much bent, 

His sword cut through its sheath — fell at his side ; 
The young, bold martyr fell, he in the harness died ! 

The impressions I received from Summer- 
field never entirely left me. They were like bread 
cast upon the waters. 

I contracted a taste for theatrical amuse- 
ments, and heard some of the chief actors ; but 
I was not satisfied long with the self-exalting 
eloquence of the stage. I wearied of empty 
display that seemed aimless and vain. I took 
more satisfaction in reading Shakespeare. The 
influence that the theater exerts upon minds that 
love its attractions, is " only evil, and that con- 
tinually." It spoils the taste for " things of good 
report," begets a spirit of discontent, uproots 
what grace plants in the soul, corrupts the heart, 
and fills the imagination with things "that war 
against the soul." The votaries of the theater 



4 6 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



cannot, in the course of conduct they choose to 
follow, be led or comforted by the Spirit of God. 

While an apprentice I read much, but not of 
a religious character. I broke away from spirit- 
ual restraints, and became skeptical. My un- 
belief took the form of Deism. I do not deem 
it wise or prudent to set forth in detail the pro- 
cess by which I became tainted with infidelity ; 
for the carnal mind will be influenced more by 
sophistry than by truth on the subject of 
theology. Often my co?iscience sided with Bible 
truth when my heart would rebel against it. My 
companions led me on along the downward road 
until I became almost reckless of consequences. 
I did not believe the Bible to be inspired, and 
that Christ was the Son of God. I never in- 
tended to be a deist at first. Depraved nature, 
and Satanic influence, gave me the qualifying* 
ignorance of infidelity. What I did to make me a 
deist " I did ignorantly, in unbelief." Some in- 
consistent Christian professors, and bad-hearted 
unbelievers, with pernicious publications that I 
read, kept me active, and the confession of my 
skeptical doubts was meant for an apology, until 



YOUTHFUL 1 RAINING. 



47 



I was branded as an infidel. Then my skeptical 
friends engaged me to address public meetings 
on the subject. 1 have often been asked, " if I 
were not as sincere in my doubting state of mind 
w T hile I was a skeptic, as I have been since I have 
become a Christian ?" This question is hard to 
answer satisfactorily. If a blind man should be 
asked if he could see he would, in honesty, say 
no! If he were restored to sight, he would an- 
swer accordingly. Some people say they see 
when they do not. Are they then hypocrites, or 
self-deceived ? I believe that I was not more 
of an infidel than many who smother their 
thoughts, or keep from openly acknowledging 
them, for fear of its having a damaging effect 
upon them. There is no confirmation in infidel- 
ity, as there is in Christianity — the first has no 
truth or goodness in it, the latter has no 
falsehood or evil in it. The Christian knows 
where he stands. The infidel does not know his 
position. Nothing can ever satisfy the longings 
of the soul but the Lord Jesus Christ, by faith. 

The death of my father, awhile before I had 
arrived at the age of maturity, affected me se- 



4 8 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



verely. I had not anticipated such an events 
and was unprepared for it. My sorrow over 
the loss was more than words can express. I 
mourned inwardly, with a sadness bordering on 
despair. I had no consolation from a religious 
faith. I looked on my poor mother, now a 
widow in bereavement, with a sympathy un- 
known before. In bitter anguish I lamented the 
departure that had desolated her home. And 
my brothers and only sister were orphans in a 
cold, unfriendly world. 

When Lafayette, the friend of liberty, passed 
through Newark during his visit to the United 
States, I saw him and shook hands with him. 
His memory was cherished as a true patriot and 
well-wisher toward all men. But he was much 
beloved, especially by our country, for his mag- 
nanimity toward us in our struggle for indepen- 
dence, when help was needed. The patriotic 
citizens of Newark determined to show him that 
respect which was due to him. They erected a 
" Temple of Liberty 1 ' on the military park, near 
where the Episcopal church stands. It was com- 
posed of thirteen pillars, representing the 



YOUTHFUL TRAINING. 



49 



thirteen original States. Around these pillars 
evergreen branches were fastened. In the center 
of the temple, was the identical chair occupied 
by John Hancock, at the signing of the " Dec- 
laration of American Independence." This 
chair of renown w T as for the reception of the 
nation's guest, Lafayette. He received the de- 
served honor with characteristic modesty. Just 
as he was entering the "Temple of Liberty" 
prepared for him, the select committee that 
conducted the exercises struck up and. began to 
sing the inappropriate song : 

"Will you come to the bower, 
All shaded for you ? 
Your bed shall be roses, 
Bespangled with dew." 

The members of the committee are now, no 
doubt, all dead ; for if living, this notice of the 
matter would be out of place, as the song they 
sung was. What could our great friend Lafay- 
ette want of " a bed of roses wet with dew" — or 
anybody else? The Marquis was a fine-looking 
man, I judged not ambitious of pompous pa- 
rade. He limped, from a wound he received in 
4 



5° 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



the battle of " Brandywine." His lameness was 
a memorial of his friendship for this country 
during the eventful days of the " Revolution." 

In the winter of the year 1825 I was mar- 
ried. My companion was inclined to be relig- 
ious and truly honest ; I was not sorry for it. I 
did not, in reality, want a skeptical wife ! I won- 
der who does ? I secretly wished that I was a 
genuine Christian. I would not have acknowl- 
edged this at the time. I did not use my influ- 
ence to make my wife doubt the Bible or to 
hate Christians ; and yet, when Rev. John New- 
land Maffitt came to help in a revival in the 
Methodist church in Halsey street, and my wife 
wanted to hear him, I tried to persuade her not 
to go. But she went, and I went with her, to 
keep her, if I could, from being over-persuaded 
by Maffitt. I had a dislike toward him, think- 
ing his eloquence carried people away into 
fanaticism. I heard him, and was powerfully 
w r rought upon. Many sinners were at the altar 
to be prayed for that night. But my wife did 
not go forward, and I was glad. I subsequently 
became intimately acquainted with Mr. Maffitt. 



YOUTHFUL TRAINING. 



He was peculiar. He was very lively at times, 
and then would be very much depressed. He 
was a genius and an orator who had few equals. 
At times he wielded tremendous power in the 
pulpit. He had his faults. Who has not ? He 
also had his virtues. 

Infidels become such by resisting the Spirit 
of God. I think the most of them have had, 
during some period of their lives, convictions of 
sin, by the striving of the Spirit, and they, in 
disobedience " to the heavenly vision," have 
hardened their hearts. Being ignorant of God, 
they charge Christians with hypocrisy. All 
truth is against them. " Professing themselves 
to be wise, they became fools, and their foolish 
hearts were darkened." They become "vain in 
their imaginations." Unbelief is in accord with 
the natural state of the heart, notwithstanding 
that "a manifestation of the Spirit is given to 
every man to profit withal." The mere belief 
that there is a God, although in accordance with 
sound reason, does not originate with human 
reason. It is the effect of God's own Spirit that 
operates on all ; and yet this faith that acknowl- 



5^ 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



edges the existence of the Deity, is not at all 
saving. The deist is as far from salvation as the 
atheist. We apprehend and appreciate the evi- 
dence of the Divine Being, "in his eternal pow- 
er and Godhead," only by the direct aid of the 
Holy Spirit. Such evidence is not apprehended 
by mere natural reason, and therefore no true 
ideas of God's attributes can be entertained 
aside from revelation. This is important to 
consider, to avoid radical error on the subject. 
Some imagine that they can lift up their intellect 
to the Most High ! As well might we suppose 
that our bodily eye-sight might be pushed up to 
the sun, to be filled with his light, and not wait 
for its descent. 

There are, indeed, marks of contrivance and 
design, that God has left on all His works, dis- 
cernible by rational creatures, but it is not by 
the light of nature wholly ; for those without 
the Bible believe that there are "lords many, 
and gods many." The Christian apprehends 
marks of grand design in all he sees about him ; 
in magnitude, variety and adaptation of parts to 
purposes ; but, it is not through the medium of 



YOUTHFUL TRAINING. 



53 



his own nature that he has <"his knowledge. 
"There is a spirit in man, and the inspiration 
of the Almighty giveth them understanding." 
" Because that which may be known of God is 
manifested in them, for God hath shewed it unto 
them." It is within the grace-provided zone of 
the Spirit's operations that God communicates 
the knowledge of Himself. 

There are four things that it is unprofit- 
able " to speculate on," viz : First, an effort of 
the mind to reach and explore the region of 
nonentity. Second, to try to comprehend the un- 
bounded immensity of space There are no 
bounds to universal being. Third, the unknow- 
able beginning of duration. Fourth, the endless 
end of it in the everlasting onward ! We err 
when we attempt to comprehend the incompre- 
hensible ; and also, when we refuse to believe 
what we cannot comprehend. If we could com- 
prehend all things, there would be no God for 
us to worship or to glorify. 

But redeemed man stands within nature's 
vast cathedral. It is richly carpeted with living 
verdure. It is furnished with the needed sup- 



54 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



plies for the wants of probation. The green earth 
with its zones and varied climes is beautiful, 
beneath the high, o'er-arching dome, of jeweled 
azure. This order of things furnishes right 
thinkers with proof of One above us, who thinks, 
who has goodness, wisdom, power, and skill 
— the Almighty Architect Divine ! A Book un- 
like all other books, lies open before the eyes of 
the candid reader. It contains an account of the 
Creator's handy-work. A central sun is in 
mid-heaven to illuminate the scene, shining on 
the mind that reads, and on The Book. This 
wonderful Book, to the spiritual reader, is con- 
firmed as a Revelation from God. Nature, the 
Bible, and the Holy Ghost, give us their com- 
bined evidence concerning Divine things ; and 
we have no authority to ignore either one of 
them, or to separate what God has joined to- 
gether. 

True Christians can say, " Here we take our 
stand on this field of observation — the beautified, 
useful, rolling globe ! They stand amid a glow- 
ing universe of suns and systems, and unmeas- 
ured, far-off skies, inviting the human intellect 



YOUTHFUL TRAINING. 



55 



to a survey of its Maker's works !" But all 
that we can learn of God, from his cre- 
ative energy, will not save us. His will 
is known in reading His word, by the 
light of His Holy Spirit ; and this we receive by 
believing in Jesus Christ his Son. Rejecting 
Him, ^e disqualify ourselves to judge of spirit- 
ual truth. The love of truth which the Spirit 
of God will inspire, in all who will yield to His 
influence, will lead to Christ. He is called the 
" Spirit of Truth," which the world cannot re- 
ceive. He is God himself, and when we give 
Him welcome to our hearts, we partake of the 
Divine nature. Through this light and life we 
know the true God, and are saved. The Holy 
Ghost makes it possible for all to know the only 
true God, in Christ ; for He strives with all men. 
The blind may see, the deaf hear, and the dead 
live. Christ has made it possible for all to 
be saved ; and yet, " he that believeth not shall 
be damned. ,, Are not the laws of eternal truth 
irreversible ? 



CHAPTER III. 



BAD TENDENCIES OF NATURE AND SELF. — GOOD 

CONVICTIONS FROM GRACE AND TRUTH. 

"Oh Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself ; but in me is 
thy help." — Hosea xiii. 9. 

Man's natural inclinations turn away from 
God. True faith does not rest on opinions, for 
it has Christ for its " author and finisher." 
Opinions are like the changing views seen in 
the kaleidoscope, varying at every turn. Faith is 
a principle of grace, wrought in the willing 
heart by the inspiration of the Holy Ghost. 
Faith is, therefore, "of the operation of God," 
and " works by love, purifying the heart/' 
Opinions respecting spiritual matters firmly 
held while we are in an unregenerate state, are 
wrong. Whoever will not change his opinions 
on any account is a fool. The very best opin- 
ions will not save those that entertain them. 
[56] 



Bad tendencies. 



57 



The Bible does not teach opinions, but truth, 
and eternal principles. Its teaching is infal- 
lible, and is rejected at imminent peril. We have 
in the Sacred Scriptures authoritative instruc- 
tion in the saving way. But the Bible is not 
rightly understood by the carnal mind. That is 
" not subject to God's law, neither indeed can 
be." Had man been consulted, concerning the 
kind of revelation he should receive from God, 
the world would never have received such a Bible 
as we now have. The true faith, which is " of 
the operation of God," is the only condition of 
our conversion. Without it " it is impossible to 
please God." Faith, to be genuine must, like a 
telescope, sweep the whole hemisphere of reve- 
lation from horizon to horizon. To treat any 
portion of the Scriptures with unbelief will for- 
bid the exercise of saving faith. The separat- 
ing of faith from love, purity, and works, is mis- 
leading. Faith is at the foundation of all that 
is praise-worthy in the Christian character. 
They that say they believe, and have not love, nor 
purity, nor good works, do greatly err. All the 
fruits of the Spirit are the production of a liv- 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



ing faith. There is no prayer that is effectual, 
no growth in grace, without faith. Christ is 
followed by faith. And all Christian testimony 
that is acceptable to God is given by faith. The 
true faith, though " chosen of God, and pre- 
cious," is " disallowed of men." It is the essen- 
tial element in the salvation of the gospel of 
Christ. 

It is a great and damaging error, to suppose 
that there is more than one faith that saves. We 
hear such expressions as these : " The Presby- 
terian faith, the Baptist faith, the Methodist 
faith." Now, there is but one Lord, one Faith, 
one Baptism. All ideas of faith, that do not 
apprehend it to be, " the gift of God," through 
grace, are visionary and carnal, and calculated 
to deceive. 

How important it is, that young converts 
should be started right ! God's part of our 
salvation is always the same, because it is perfect. 
Ours must be the effect of looking to Christ, and 
doing whatsoever He commands us. Our part 
will undoubtedly be defective. What God 
works in us is experience. In this loving and 



BAD TENDENCIES. 



59 



purifying experience all Christians agree and 
have no controversy. In our opinions, which 
are our own, there is no harmony, and we all 
differ, and have unnecessary strife at times. 

The strongest delusion that can beset the 
human mind, is the trusting in some fancied 
goodness, out of Christ, for salvation. Think of 
a guilty, corrupt and perishing man, making a 
character out of his merits, in which to appear 
before God at the judgment ! See a man arm- 
ing himself with implements of pointed steel to 
meet the frowning cloud, surcharged with light- 
ning, and you have an illustration of coming to 
God with a righteousness that does not " exceed 
that of the Scribes and Pharisees." How blind- 
ing is selfishness when God is not in all our 
thoughts! Skepticism and hypocrisy are two 
branches of the same barren tree, springing 
from the root of moral depravity. They are 
manifestations of unbelief, or, of " believing a 
lie." They are truth-resisting, God-defying, 
methods of Satan, to destroy the souls of men, 
"for whom Christ died." 

An incident occurred, about four years after 



6o 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



my marriage, that may illustrate my desire then 
to do good, in a self-righteous way. I was striv- 
ing to do well in worldly matters, working in- 
dustriously, using every means, wishing to pos- 
sess a home, and plenty. I had an industrious 
and prudent wife, and I was honest in all mat- 
ters of " dollars and cents." I was trying to be 
good, by following "Seneca" in his moral teach- 
ing. I took him as my standard. I was severe 
on derelict Christian professors. One evening, 
a little way from my house, across the street, I 
heard the cry of children, from a barn, that 
had just received the fall crop of hay. I went 
near the barn, and the mother told the children 
to " hush." I said to her, " My good woman, 
have you been sent here to spend the night, with 
your two children ?" She replied, " yes," in a 
weeping voice. I said, " Be patient a little 
while : I will bring my wife here, and we will 
give you a better sleeping-place than this." We 
did so, and the woman was comfortable in our 
dwelling. After breakfast, the next morning, 
she said her husband was a drunkard, and she 
had been sent to the poor-master for aid ; and 



BAD TENDENCIES. 



61 



hence her circumstances. On leaving, she said, 
" How kind you have been to me — surely, you 
love Jesus, don't you?" I replied, "no!" She 
directly kneeled down, where she stood, and 
prayed most fervently for my wife and myself. 
She brought Christ so powerfully near to my 
conscience that I was, at the time, unable to re- 
sist. It was a little singular, that in doing a 
kind act toward a fellow-being Christ met me ! 

During the delivery of my last harangue 
against religion in a public way, the Spirit of 
God arrested me, rendering it impossible for 
me to continue on that line. Good and bad 
characters, with the chief causes, were made to 
pass in reyiew before my mind with vivid dis- 
tinctness. My imagination beheld the traits of 
Christian character in contrast with those of the 
skeptic, in such manifest truthfulness, that I be- 
lieved it to be enlightenment from God. My 
own sinfulness and present wicked conduct ap- 
peared in the kind of approval I met with from 
acknowledged bad men, who applauded me. 
Good men were not of my audience. I deem it 
not in accord with good judgment, to rehearse 



62 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



the sentiments contained in my address. I re- 
solved, while speaking, never to be so occupied 
again. I walked home with impressions such 
as were new to me. Reaching home, I wished 
to be alone and went into my bed-room. I took 
up the Bible, and trembled ! I glanced rapidly 
over its pages, and felt "guilty before God." I 
knew not what to do. I felt myself weak. I 
wished some of those Christians I had ridiculed 
and persecuted would now come to my assist- 
ance. There was so much in the Bible that I 
could not comprehend. How could I find sav- 
ing truth and know when I had found it? I had 
offended God, and how 7 could I "be at peace 
with Him — and He with me ?" were agitating 
questions. I was afraid I might die before find- 
ing salvation. I was sick of self and of my 
misdoings. The na??ie of Jesus began to make 
new and deep impressions on my mind. I 
trembled at its sound as I pronounced it ! It 
was not like any other name. I recited a num- 
ber of great names and wondered why they did 
not affect me like the name of Jesus ! It was 
indeed to me as it should be to all, " a name 



BAD TENDENCIES. 



63 



above every name !" It seemed to possess con- 
scious agency and looked at me all the while. I 
could not dismiss it from my thoughts for the 
time being. This was the great and precious 
name I had so much disregarded and spoken 
against. I think it was the Holy Spirit that 
brought the truth to bear so powerfully upon 
my conscience. 

A book fell into my hands about this time, 
that I read with profit. The author of the book 
was Dr. Bonnet, of Switzerland. He was a very 
learned man, and Voltaire had written to him, 
desiring him to aid him in overthrowing Christi- 
anity ; but Bonnet was himself a Christian, and 
wrote the book because of Voltaire's evil pur- 
pose in requesting him to help in his propaga- 
tion of infidelity. The book treats of the 
"Christian evidences" I read the chapter on the 
resurrection of Christ. From reading and think- 
ing on that grand event, the great, funda?ne?ttal 
fact, so essential to the Christian faith, I assent- 
ed to it. If Christ had not risen from the dead, 
His dead body, which His enemies had in posses- 
sion, would have been publicly exhibited ; and 



6 4 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



this would most assuredly have crushed out His 
religion — the very thing that His enemies en- 
deavored to do. He was in their hands — why 
did they not expose Him ? There is no way to 
account for the lack of this, but that there was no 
dead body to exhibit, for He was " risen from the 
dead!" This truth came to my mind, and I 
feared greatly, for He would come again. 

If Christ is not risen from the dead, what 
must be thought of the report that was made of 
Him eighteen hundred years ago ? This report 
is associated with divine things — with the faith 
that saves from sin. When it is rejected the 
heart is manifestly under the sway of depravity 
and Satan. It is believed by the best minds, and 
purest characters on earth. Could it be possible 
that a false report of so wonderful an event 
could be productive, through the ages, of so 
much good to millions of its believers? God 
hates a lie j and is opposed to the makers and 
believers and lovers of a lie. He changes into 
His own image, hearts that sincerely believe and 
trust in the living Christ. I concluded that 
" these things were so and that Jesus Christ 



BAD TENDENCIES. 



65 



would come on earth the " second time." I was 
not prepared to meet Him, and I became greatiy 
alarmed. Despair began to throw its awful 
shadows around me, and I was greatly depressed. 
Many good people shunned me, and I interpret- 
ed it as God's righteous dealings. I looked at 
Bible truths as of infinite importance. One 
man said to me that I, as an infidel, ought not to 
have the right of citizenship in our happy land. 
I asked him, " Are you a Christian?" He an- 
swered, " Yes." I asked him again, u Do you 
commit sin ?" He said, " Yes, every day and 
hour and minute." Then, I replied, " We are 
both sinners ; but you are the worst. I never 
cheat ; but you, in trading horses with your 
neighbor cheated him out of thirty dollars, and 
boasted of it. And now, you come to abuse me, 
because I am not a Christian !" He left me, 
saying he believed I was a dangerous man. 

I had a visit, from a real Christian, by the 
name of Edmund Heap. He would not argue 
with me, but wished to read to me from the 
Bible, and pray. I knew he felt for me; and left 
good impressions. I visited John Helm; and he 



66 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



wished me to stay and take dinner with him. 
He purposely avoided all arguments with me ; 
but, showed a spirit of Christian kindness that 
affected me seriously. His asking a blessing 
at the dinner-table nearly overcame me. I 
looked at myself as a heathen for living as I did. 
Christianity began to greatly eclipse Infidelity, 
in my estimation. 

Intoxicating drinks have never had a strong 
hold on me, my appetite has never craved 
them. I have always disliked all forms of 
inebriety. Nevertheless, I felt the influence of 
bad associations, and was involved, somewhat, 
in the meshes of intemperance. Many of my 
associates were addicted to the glass, and I with 
them, from the force of example, drank beer, 
cider, wine, and brandy, occasionally. As my 
friends would treat me I was bound to treat 
them in turn, or be considered mean. I 
hated the custom, yet was a slave to it. Many 
times I left my company abruptly and went 
home. I began to give the matter serious 
thought. It was advertised that a lecture on 
Temperance would be delivered in the Third 



BAD TENDENCIES. 



6 7 



Presbyterian Church, on a certain evening. I at- 
tended, although on a stormy night, and heard 
a minister give a common-sense address, show- 
ing the every-day evils connected with the use of 
intoxicating liquors as a beverage. He con- 
vinced me that there could be no neutral 
ground between temperance and intemperance. 
We do lend our influence to either one side or 
the other — that the safety-position is, in total 
abstinence. I signed my name the next morn- 
ing, to the u Cold-water-pledge ;" and I used it 
as a shield of argument, to defend me from my 
friends of the moderate-drinking class. I join- 
ed myself to the Temperance party, and received 
gladly the reproach that was heaped upon it by 
its enemies. I was called a weak man, and 
was pitied by strong men. " I guess his wife 
has an influence over him, and caused him to 
sign away his habits !" some said. There 
are in my memory, at least, five persons, who 
used strong persuasions for me to break my 
pledge, that now are sleeping in drunkards' graves ! 
My pledge has never yet been broken, and I 
have no regrets to offer for signing it. \ 



68 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



believe God approved of it, as the sequel will 
show. 

I will say here that I am persuaded that Tem- 
perance is certainly included in the blessed 
cause of Christ. It is a comforting thought to 
me, that I have been honored of God in leading 
some to forsake their cups, and live temperate 
lives. And such, in many cases, became useful 
and happy Christians — good husbands and 
worthy citizens. 

One poor, drunken fellow, fat and heavy, on 
a rainy night, I helped home from the gutter on 
a wheel-barrow, laughed at by the heedless. He 
was prayed with and for, and directed to look 
to Jesus. He was saved, after struggles and 
labor that God owned. Years afterward, when 
I had become a Christian minister, it was my 
lot to preach in the city where the reformed in- 
ebriate lived. I had not heard of his reforma- 
tion. Judge of my emotions, when I saw among 
the officers of the Church, taking the basket col- 
lection, my old, heavy friend, who reminded me 
of the wheel-barrow ride, on a dark, stormy night/ 
He had, for some years, been a living, useful 



BAD TENDENCIES. 



6 9 



member and officer in the Church. He died in 
Christian triumph. Will his friends be sorry 
that they bestowed labor on him, when they 
shall see him arrayed in robes of white, at the 
great crowning day ? 

The great Dagon of intemperance will never 
be brought down, until it falls before the ark of 
God. The temple of Bacchus rests on four 
pillars. They must be knocked from under, 
before it falls. The four sources of evil that 
support intemperance, and from which it flows, 
are: First: — The self-created appetite for in- 
toxicating liquors. Such appetite is not natural, 
but acquired. Aside from this abnormal long- 
ing there could be no intemperate drinking, no 
drunkenness. Second : — The love for unright- 
eous gain that leads depraved ones to cater to 
this perverted appetite. If this unrighteous 
principle did not actuate the liquor-dealer, then 
intemperance would not be sustained and nour- 
ished as it is ; it would die. Third : — The 
" License Law." This law is the evil, legalized 
means resorted to by votaries of the other two 
evil principles, to sustain themselves, in their 



7o 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



course oi degradation and abominable traffic. 
This most unjust law is originated and sup- 
ported for the most vile purposes. Fourth', — 
The indifference of the sober portion of the 
community. Some think that such indifference 
can be indulged by Christians. How heartless, 
humiliating, and hurtful such supine indiffer- 
ence ! How derogatory to the well-being of 
society, damaging and dangerous, such License 
Law. How craven, sordid and selfish. How 
soul-hurting such covetous love of gain, to 
engage in liquor-selling for money-making, and 
at the expense of immortality ! And, O, how 
appalling the appetite created by intemperance, 
to swallow wealth, health, reputation, domestic 
happiness, and the hope of Heaven ! For what ? 
A poisonous drug, that ruins man for both 
worlds ! 

My temperance principles becoming more 
known, had the effect of alienating old associ- 
ates, and drawing me into better fellowship. I 
was brought into more favorable contact with 
Christians, feeling their influence more and 
more. I realized their superiority, in every 



BAD TENDENCIES, 



sense, over my skeptical, and drinking friends. 
They had better characters, and better sense. 
"A man is known by the company he keeps." 
The minds of bad men are a dangerous atmos- 
phere to breathe in. 

The temperance cause is the cause of God 
and has been damaged by endeavoring to pro- 
mote it in an ungodly manner. It has been 
hindered by associating it with sinful amuse- 
ments, and exercises that turn the heart away 
from God, and cause it to do " despite to the 
Spirit of Grace ;" and to despise Bible-instruc- 
tion. Then, again, it has been injured by good 
men in their honest strife to promote it. Harsh 
means have been resorted to, which have been 
taken for a vindictive spirit. The buyers and 
sellers of intoxicating drinks have been treated 
with too much severity, and been hardened in 
their sinful business. True reformation is 
worked by Gospel means, and no other. Chris- 
tianity embraces all the power and agencies, to 
complete the moral and spiritual character of 
man. A resort to any means outside the Church 
must, ultimately, prove a failure. " Without 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



Christ," in this matter, "we can do nothing." 
Faith in God, and a loving spirit, wisely co- 
working, are the elements that promise success 
in the cause of temperance. " Good will toward 
men," in genuine "Christianity in earnest," to 
"rescue the perishing," will succeed. 

" Total abstinence," from all that intoxicates, 
is temperance, and nothing less deserves the 
name. This I pledged myself to adhere to, and 
have lived up to it. It had no doubt a tendency 
to lead me to Christ ; although I was uncon- 
scious of it ; or, was it not Christ himself, lead- 
ing me through this medium? I heard preach- 
ing and read books on the line of gospel-teach- 
ing. Ladies connected with the Presbyterian 
Church left me tracts to read, and I read them 
with profit. But I was gloomy beyond descrip- 
tion. I mourned inwardly, and gave myself to 
melancholy — visited, sometimes, the ancient 
"grave-yard," on moonlight-evenings, sitting 
on the tombstones, alone, thinking on the tran- 
sitoriness of human life, and what would be my 
final destination ! On such occasions I would 



BAD TENDENCIES. 



73 



compose verses and, sometimes I would have 
them printed in the newspapers. 

One piece, with a little alteration, is here 
given. 

O, Death ! could we poor mortals know 

The visions, in thy slumbers deep, 
We might not fear with thee to go, 

Alone in thy cold couch to sleep; 
For is there not some friendly home 

Where weary ones at peace may dwell, 
Far brighter than this earth we roam? 

Then why not, gladly, bid farewell 
To scenes of morbid toil and care, 

And be contented ever, there ? 

This effusion gives some faint idea of the 
despondency of my mind. My mental suffer- 
ings were such that they preyed upon my health. 
I often wished that I never had been born. 

On the evening of January 8th, 1833, in the 
M. E. Church, Halsey street, I heard a sermon 
that was brought by the Spirit with power to 
my heart. I had walked alone to the church, in 
deep meditation. I wondered if ever I would 
be a Christian ! As I entered the house, I saw 
in the pulpit Rev. Charles Pitman. I had written 
a piece to be published in a New York news- 



74 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



paper, severely criticising him, but it never 
appeared ; in a measure my prejudice was 
gone, and I was glad he was to preach that even- 
ing. I took my seat near the pulpit and was an 
attentive hearer of the word. The text was, 
" Beginning at Jerusalem," Luke xxiv. 47. The 
preacher descanted on the subject contained in 
the text in a manner that brought conviction 
to my conscience. He proved two things from 
his text : 1st. That the gospel must be true, be- 
cause, in Jerusalem, the scenes transpired as 
facts on which the gospel rests, viz. : the cruci- 
fiction of Christ, and His resurrection. If these 
facts could have been refuted, they would have 
been, for the Jews had the disposition, but they 
lacked the ability. 2d. That Jerusalem was the 
place to show the extent of the gospel mercy, 
even to Christ's own crucifiers. I prayed that 
my Creator might convince me, if what the 
preacher said was the truth. I began to perspire 
profusely, and to tremble in a manner noted by 
many in the congregation. My trembling was 
irresistible. It was the result of the power of 
God in answer to prayer ; I was sure of it at 



BAD TENDENCIES. 



75 



the time, and should have surrendered myself to 
God at once, but I left the house before the ser- 
mon was ended, and wandered off alone in an 
orchard beyond the city limits. I felt a dispo- 
sition to pray, but did not kneel down, for a 
dread of something, I knew not what. The sky 
was clear, save a few fast-flying clouds, that cast 
their shadows on the ground, partly covered 
with patches of snow-drifts. I think Satanic 
power was exerted on me to keep me from pray- 
ing. I feared that I might fall into a trance and 
freeze to death. I did not arrive home until a 
late hour, and retired to bed without prayer, 
after having been so impressed at the church 
that I had no more doubt that God had wrought 
on my mind, than I could have of my own being. 
I then believed in the divinely inspired truth of 
the Bible and all its teachings, and remained 
unconverted, notwithstagding. 

A fear possessed me that I might have found 
pardon and peace if I had yielded before ; but 
now it was too late, and that God was making an 
example of me for the good of others. I took 
the part of Christianity against skepticism in 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



conversation, and those who learned my con- 
victions from time to time, took me to be a 
Christian. A good man visited and conversed 
with me on the subject of religion, and I wept 
bitterly as he showed an interest in my case. 
He said : " I believe you are a converted man. 
You have had a change of heart. See how you 
weep — you ought to join the Church." Now 
this was ail in sincerity and with good inten- 
tions. But I told him that I was not converted, 
although I was no more an infidel. Moreover, 
I did not pray and was disobedient. Why I was 
not willing to give myself to be converted then, 
I cannot explain. To force the bud to bloom, 
or fruit to ripen, may have a tendency to spoil 
it. 



CHAPTER IV. 



FIRST CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCES. 

" For his anger endureth but a moment ; in his favor is 
li e. Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in 
the morning." — Psalm xxx. 5. 

Creeds have been formulated by profound 
thinkers. Haters of creeds are sometimes big- 
ots themselves. Creeds held by orthodox de- 
nominations are evidences that able'minds have 
been divinely influenced in formulating them. 
Because of age they should not be denounced 
as being misleading " ruts" A road through a 
wilderness is evidence that persons have thought 
it best to travel there. Is it wise or safe for us 
always to plan and walk in our own way, lightly 
esteeming others? 

When any system of theology, claiming to 
\>e of God, requires its votaries to discredit the 

[77] 



78 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



evangelical Churches, such system is radically 
wrong, and never instrumental in bringing sin- 
ners to Christ. Any system which does not 
bring its followers into a regenerated state fails 
to come up to Christian requirements. 

Truth, saving in its power, is revealed. It is 
not discoverable by reason. The written Word 
is made spirit and life by the inward testimony 
of the Holy Ghost. The mind of Christ in the 
believer gives him capacity to read aright the 
written Word, and understand its spiritual 
meaning. " Old ruts," so called, are quite 
likely paths in which truth has often led believ- 
ers. If people become better by traveling in 
them, we should inquire what is the leading 
doctrine of their belief ; for good effects flow 
from good causes. While learning is good, the 
pride of conscious education is to be deplored. 
The learned must believe the same truths that 
are used in the salvation of the ignorant. u The 
common people heard Jesus gladly," and so it 
is still. There is an error to which we are 
liable, i. e., that the unconverted world will ap- 
prove what is true and good in the preaching ; 



FIRST CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCES. 79 



and that filling the pews by the preacher is 
always evidence of being true to God. 

Some are prone to teach, that punishment 
among the after-death realities should never be 
an element in the motives of a seeker of Christ — 
that salvation is to be sought and chosen as a 
great good, very easy to be received — that it is 
a selfish motive to seek saving mercy in a way 
that has " fear and trembling " in it. 

I passed through indescribable mental suffer- 
ing for more than five months after being thor- 
oughly convinced "of sin, righteousness, and a 
judgment to come." " The wrath of God " rested 
upon me. I believed then, and do yet, that an 
awful and eternal hell awaits the finally impen- 
itent. I feared " Him that can cast both soul 
and body into hell." I dreaded that "eternal 
damnation " which the blessed Christ speaks oi 
Now, how could I help being sorely oppressed 
in this manner? It was the Word of God that 
wrought this " godly sorrow " in me. No pen- 
itent sinner has a choice in the manner of his 
repentance. The grace of repentance is the gift 
of God, and the Holy Spirit guides by present- 



8o 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



ing to our minds things of hope and fear, until 
we realize a "godly sorrow working a repent- 
ance not to be repented of." Some people seem 
to think that they can select portions of the 
Bible, put their own construction upon them, 
fling away the rest, and manage their own 
motives in coming to God, regardless of what is 
pleasing to Him, and find blessings according to 
their own notion without consulting divine au- 
thority. In my extreme suffering I learned im- 
portant lessons that could not be learned in any 
other school. u By the law is the knowledge 
of sin;" and without knowing sin " in its ex- 
ceeding sinfulness," as measured by the law, 
there is no perfect knowledge of salvation. 
Rev. Dr. Pitman once remarked to me, that it was 
his opinion " if repentance was not experienced 
deeply, before conversion, it would be realized 
more bitterly after being born again, by all who 
would grow in grace." 

I had left off working at my trade, and was 
teaching a little school, giving myself much to 
reading and reflection. The previous year had 
been marked with sadness in Newark by the 



FIRST CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCES. 8l 



cholera, which had carried off many of my 
acquaintances, and a number unprepared. Be- 
lieving the Bible to be the infallible truth of 
God, and not misleading in its teaching, I 
dreaded death and the endless punishment of 
the wicked. I thought of the merciful oppor- 
tunities I had abused, the many preachers I 
had heard in "old Halsey Street Church," such 
as Revs. Thatcher, Martindale, Kennaday, Crea- 
mer, Porter, Atwood, Matthias and Maffitt. 

I had often said, " I did not want my wife 
converted, nor ever to become a Methodist," and 
would never allow her to go to camp-meet- 
ings. My memory was busy with the past, 
bringing up my imprudent conduct, and no 
comfort could be found in anything. All cre- 
ation seemed gloomy. Sadness was depicted 
everywhere. The sunlight had the fever ; and 
the blossoms and flowers wore a tinge of mel- 
ancholy. The sun seemed out of place, and 
sometimes too large, and then too small — the 
moon and stars by night ceased to give me pleas- 
ure. I wanted to love something, but knew not 
what, nor how. My state of mind was indesqrib- 
6 



82 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



able. All this was the result of not being recon- 
ciled to God. 

" Shall he whose birth, maturity and age 
Scarce fill the circle of one summer day, 
Shall the poor gnat, with discontent and rage, 
Exclaim that Nature hastens to decay, 
If but a cloud obstruct the solar ray, 
If but a momentary shower descend ? 
Or shall frail man Heaven's dread decree gainsay, 
Which bade the series of events extend 
Wide through unnumbered worlds and ages with- 
out end ?" 

How much I was at fault for my sadness I 
know not. It became useful to me to help 
others. 

I lived in the seventh chapter of Romans 
nearly five months, and was reduced to a skele- 
ton both in body and soul. I hated sin, but was 
under its bondage. " For I was alive without 
the law once, but when the commandment came 
sin revived and I died. And the commandment 
which was ordained to life, I found to be unto 
death. For sin, taking occasion by the com- 
mandment, deceived me, and by it slew me." 
. . . . "For I delight in the law of God 



FIRST CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCES. 83 



after the inward man ; but I see another law in 
my members, warring against the law of my 
mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law 
of sin which is in my members. O wretched 
man that I am ! who shall deliver me from 
the body of this death ?" This state of mind de- 
scribed by the great apostle was my condition. 
Some take it to be a high state of religious 
experience toward which we should aspire. Had 
I not found deliverance from it in Christ, as 
Paul did, my life would have terminated. Yet 
there was a purpose in it for the glory of God, 
and my spiritual good. To realize the need of 
Christ in sin's exceeding sinfulness, is laying a 
good foundation for a Christian life. If we 
could be saved without the knowledge of sin, we 
would not love so much, nor be so thankful. 

A Camp-meeting being in progress, about two 
miles and a half from my residence, on the out- 
skirts of Newark, I concluded, through the 
persuasion of my wife, to attend. On June 25th, 
1833, dismissing my school for the remainder of 
the week, I went to the Camp-meeting. It was a 
beautiful day. The blue sky and yellow sun- 



8 4 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



shine, the green grass and leafy trees, the sing- 
ing birds and fragrant flowers, all proclaimed 
gladness amid the loveliness of landscape scen- 
ery. But I was sad and sorrowful. I tried to 
think of the goodness of God in my lonely 
meditations along the way. I thought 1 would 
be willing to do anything if I could only be re- 
conciled to God. When I arrived at the camp 
I felt prejudice against the manner of worship, 
the devout ones kneeling and praying so fer- 
vently, and praising God so joyfully. It was so 
beyond all my experience. And it was hard to 
believe the happy worshipers were sincere. 
Mental pride was a great barrier. It was morti- 
fying to kneel down before the multitude, 
" humbling myself under the mighty hand of 
God." "They that are in the flesh cannot please 
God." Standing at the door of a public tent, 
in which was erected a "mourner's bench" for 
penitents, I was suddenly surprised by a stout 
arm around my neck, and earnest words, impor- 
tuning me to seek salvation. It was my next- 
door neighbor, a warm-hearted . Methodist, who 
knew that I was serious. He entreated me to 



FIRST CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCES. 85 



go into the tent, and be prayed for. I yielded 
to his words, tears and physical force. He was 
determined to have me saved. He said. " John, 
I know you feel sad, — I have watched you for 
some time, and the devil is busy with you, and 
will determine to have you if possible. Come 
with me into the tent, and we will pray for you." 
And he gave me a "strong pulV to start with. I 
yielded, glad that he urged me so violently, for 
I feared the Methodists would lack confidence 
in me, for what I had written about them in the 
papers — especially against Rev. J. L. Gilder, 
for being so young, he having preached in the 
Franklin Street M. E. Church, in a late revival. 
But they were glad to see me on my knees for 
prayer. While in that attitute, I was tempted 
with thoughts more wicked than usual. I could 
not pray, and was mortified. I had often tried 
to make sport of the Methodists, and now they 
were praying for me. All the opposition I had 
manifested came into my memory, with every 
foolish utterance. But the brethren prayed 
earnestly for the poor blinded infidel, that he 
might find Christ. 



86 tHE ITINERANT ON FOOT, 

In the afternoon a sermon was preached that 
helped me in a measure. At night, Rev. G. G. 
Cookman preached, with great power. This ser- 
mon encouraged and strengthened me to perse- 
vere. O, how I desired to be like the bold 
preacher ! I went home with strange feelings, 
oscillating between hope and fear. The next 
morning my wife urged me to go again, and for 
her sake I went. I was so hard a sinner, I won- 
dered why it was, that I did not find saving 
mercy sooner. It was because I did not pray 
myself, but relied on the prayers of friends. 

On arriving at the camp ground, I presented 
myself for prayers at every opportunity, but was 
afraid that they would be wearied by me, as I 
made such slow progress. I desired true re- 
ligion, and not something that resembled it, 
merely. I inquired of a genuine Christian, how 
he became converted, for I wanted experience 
and not theory. His advice was beneficial. 
After praying a number of times, I rose up, and 
said, "I am afraid that I am not a genuine 
penitent, for I have wicked thoughts yet. I may 



FIRST CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCES. 87 



be in the way of others. Perhaps God has given 
me up. But do have patience with me, I will 
not deceive you." One of the brethren stepped 
toward me, and I thought was about advising 
me to go home, and O, the despair that over- 
shadowed me like a cloud! He put his arm 
round my neck and affectionately spoke to me ; 
then a sister prayed for me. This was more 
than my proud heart could bear. I thought it 
would be noised abroad all over Newark that 
a Methodist woman prayed for John Scarlett at 
Camp-meeting, and " I shall never get over it !" 
Why should I? 

I went home that night, surly. I would not 
talk to " Mary" about my experience. She 
sighed ! The next morning my wife asked me 
" if I intended to go to the camp ?" My reply 
was, " I don't like the Methodists. They 
have caused me a great deal of trouble." She 
responded, " This is the last day of the meeting, 
and you had better go — perhaps you will get 
good." I said, "I will go, but I will eat no 
breakfast, nor anything, until satisfied that God 
will, or will not, have mercy on me. It is un- 



88 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



desirable to live as heretofore. This question 
must be settled." I started once more for the 
" tented grove," desperately in earnest, and yet 
annoyed by what I had said of the Methodists. 

Satan powerfully assailed me. I was then 
" ignorant of his devices." The preaching com- 
manded my attention, and I constantly sought 
God on my knees at the " mourners' bench," 
determined to fast until converted. About the 
hour of four in the afternoon, of June 28th, I 
retired a short distance into the woods, meditat- 
ing suicide ! The matter was thus considered : 
"Have I not done all that is possible? How- 
can I bear to live as heretofore ? Life is a 
burden, and might as well be ended at once." 
Taking a sharp -pointed knife from my pocket, 
and thinking of the locality of the heart, new 
thoughts suddenly arrested me, such as these, 
"Your pain is not a bodily one, it is a spiritual 
trouble — a soulpain. Killing yourself will not 
kill your pain, but leave it in an incurable state 
forever." Then the inquiry came " why did 
not these thoughts arise before? Was it not 
God interfering, to check my suicidal hand ?" 



FIRST CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCES. 89 



If so > was there not mercy for me ; would God 
tantalize me with false hope ? Did he not say, 
" Come now and let us reason together, saith 
the Lord : though your sins be as scarlet, they 
shall be as white as snow ; though they be red 
like crimson, they shall be as wool "? These 
reflections gave me encouragement, and I went 
in to the altar before the preacher's stand, where 
the prayer-meeting was progressing. One was 
very fervent in his singing and praying — 
afterward ascertained to be the late Rev. Wesley 
Robertson — I requested him to pray for me, which 
he did. I followed him in the prayer offered 
and adopted it as my own, until forgetting my- 
self, and absorbed with a view of Christ. 

A spiritual vision was afforded which it is not 
best to describe. I was lifted up out of all 
sorrow, instantly. My sense of guilt was gone, 
and all heaviness of spirit. It seemed as if my 
mind was like a white sheet of paper. No 
tears of anxiety or care remained. A leading 
member of the Methodist Church, who knew 
me, said, u Why, brother Scarlett, you are really 
converted !" looking at me with a steady gaze. 



9° 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



My reply was, " I think I am." Immediately the 
thought was presented, you have professed re- 
ligion too soon ; and resolved to say, no, if the ques- 
tion were asked again. Soon another brother said, 
" I am glad you have found Jesus !" I replied, 
" No ; not yet." Then it seemed as if I had denied 
my Saviour. I determined to be alone awhile, 
and went a short distance, praying in silence, thus: 
" O my God, help me, that I may know my 
state. If I am thy child, send Thy Spirit into 
my soul, and give the witness that will 
thoroughly convince me." Instantly a commu- 
nication from God was received, filling me with 
unutterable ecstacy. Inexpressible joy over- 
whelmed me, and I gave myself up to its control, 
ardently shouting and laughing. I praised God 
with my might. " Glory to God ! Glory to God, 
and O bless the Lord !" escaped from my lips, 
at every breath, with a joy " unspeakable and 
full of glory." 

This experience was entirely new. It was 
from a new source, and was of "a new creation." 
The Spirit of God held all my faculties in har- 
monious play ; and yet, I doubt if I could have 



FIRST CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCES. §1 



long lived in such transports. I left the place I 
occupied near the preacher's stand, and retired 
to where the unconverted portion of the congre- 
gation were, endeavoring to arrest this gushing 
torrent of happy feeling, but impossible — and 
the poor sinners seemed almost frightened at my 
shouting. I went into the "praying tent " and 
crept into the straw, hoping to become calm. 
There was, however, a new outgush of joy, and 
I cried, laughed, shouted, rolled over and smote 
upon my breast in heavenly rapture. Thinking 
if I stayed I would be an annoyance to the peo- 
ple, I then started for home with suppressed 
shouting along the way. Some young men 
on the way exclaimed, " I guess he has got the 
chills and fever." Before going far, the tor- 
rent of my feelings was suddenly checked. This 
was a surprise, but I concluded to serve God 
under all circumstances. 

Arriving at home, I told my wife, in accord- 
ance with my promise, what the Lord had done 
for me. My confession of Christ in this way 
immediately revived the joy realized on the 
camp-ground. How wonderfully the Lord 



9^ 



the Itinerant on foot. 



blessed me ! My wife looked strangely at me, 
as she had never seen me in such a condition 
before. I said, " Mary, don't be discouraged, for 
1 believe it is all for the best." I took down 
the much neglected Bible, read a portion, and 
prayed for the first time in my family. With 
the consent of my wife we promised to continue 
in this line while life should last. After a re- 
freshing sleep, I awoke in the morning with the 
love of God in my heart, all things looking 
beautiful and new. Such a lovely morning in 
June had never before thrown its sunshine 
around me. Everything was full of gladness 
and praising God. The green grass, the varie- 
gated flowers, the branching trees, and the sing- 
ing birds, were all in harmony with my con- 
verted heart. Every leaf had a tongue for God, 
and every breeze and sunbeam were for Him. 

A " love feast " was held on the camp-ground 
on Saturday morning ; I was there and related 
my experience, and heard others with much 
profit. I went in the afternoon to the Parsonage of 
Rev. Solomon Higgins, and desired him to record 
my name as a probationer in the Church, which 



FIRST CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCES. 93 



he did. Newark then had but two Methodist 
churches, constituting a circuit, having two 
preachers, who alternated in the Sabbath ser- 
vices, viz. : Revs. Geo. G. Cookman and Solomon 
Higgins. Having such ministers, the right kind 
of instruction was given me. When the Sabbath 
morning came " I was in the Spirit on the 
Lord's day," and He seemed to breathe on me 
His hallowing breath. Then we had, in both 
churches, afternoon preaching. I heard Cook- 
man on the first Sabbath afternoon of my Chris- 
tian life. Listening intently and prayerfully, 
and thinking on the certainty of coming events 
foretold, and the reality of religion, I swooned, 
and was unconscious of surrounding objects. 
This was not brought about by any agency of 
my own. It did not continue. This losing of 
bodily strength I do not understand to be of any 
special account. It might have resulted from 
my physical state, because of intensified feeling. 
It has, however, left on my mind a good im- 
pression, helpful to my faith. 

Shortly after my conversion I met one of my 
old acquaintances, who was a play-actor in 



94 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



Broadway, New York. He was glad to see me, 
and saluted me in his usual style, with a drama- 
tic air, thinking, no doubt, that I would answer 
him as heretofore by quoting Shakespeare. I 
told him I was converted! He laughed and said, 
" John, you personify the deaeon well, you do, 
indeed." I replied, " I am in earnest, sir, I tell 
you the truth. My heart is given to God, and I 
expect to live and die in his service. Albert, I 
tell you I am happy !" He said, " Is that so ? 
You are a weaker man than I took you to be." 

In about ten years thereafter, on a sick-bed, 
he sent, by the late Rev. J. L. Lenhart, for me to 
talk and pray with him. He was converted, and 
"died in the Lord," and I expect to meet him in 
Heaven. Christian experience has no regrets 
to entail on the followers of Jesus. 

It was laid upon me as my duty to open 
school with prayer. The younger scholars 
were pleased. I wrote my experience in a tract 
form, which was printed and published by the 
Methodist Book Concern. Its title is " Conver- 
sion of a Deist, written by himself." In a short 
time, I saw by the " Christian Advocate" that 



FIRST CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCES. 95 



God had honored it in the conversion of an 
officer of the U. S. Navy. This was very pleas- 
ant to hear, for I wished to be not only happy 
but useful. I did not teach school but a few 
weeks longer, for it did not afford me a live- 
lihood. I went with a Christian friend to Con- 
necticut, hoping to find employment. We held 
meetings for prayer and exhortation in school- 
houses, and visited and prayed with families, 
seeing some fruit, and returned home in two 
weeks. During the time my wife had become 
converted. 

I was desired by the Post-master to be 
"letter carrier." I was poor, and all things 
began " to work together for good." Let- 
ter-carrying was suitable to my health, afford- 
ing me steady remuneration, and being favora- 
ble to, and giving opportunity for simple testi- 
mony for Jesus. In this humble way of preach- 
ing the Gospel to the higher as well as lower 
classes, more good was done than was profitable 
for me to know at the time. Desiring greatly 
to grow in grace, I adopted fasting one day in 
a week to keep "my body under." Wishing to 
be a Christian in reality, I read the best books 



9 6 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



I could procure, especially on Methodist the- 
ology. Some person left a package for me, 
which on examination I found to be the Com- 
mentary of Dr. Adam Clarke on the New Tes- 
tament. The name of the donor was never 
known. I had many answers to prayer, and 
providential helps that were needed. I think 
fasting has been of great use in helping me to 
realize my spiritual need. 

I opposed the idea of " sin in believers " for 
a time, and thought that I could not have more 
of the Lord than I received in conversion. But, 
before three months rolled away I was convicted 
of the need of an indwelling Christ to be a con- 
stant heart-ruling power. He that was with me, 
I desired to be in me. There was no conscious- 
ness of backsliding in any degree. I read the 
writings of William Law and Thomas a Kempis. 
My conviction for this advanced state of re- 
ligion was not accompanied by any sense of 
guilt. While praying and fasting, clearer views 
of the provision which God had made for His 
people were received. I was very exact in at- 
tending to all my Church duties. Class-meet- 



FIRST CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCES. 97 



ings, prayer-meetings, preaching, and the sacra- 
ments, I held to be of essential importance. 
But they were outward, and I desired inward 
power, and began to think that God had it for 
me. A clean heart was my desire — the Holy 
Spirit wrought that desire. Sometimes I was 
greatly tempted to quench this spiritual desire. 
Then reasonings, superinduced by the Spirit in 
reading the Scriptures, convinced me it was at- 
tainable by faith. At various times I felt the 
risings of pride, anger and resentment of wrong. 
Although these did not obtain the mastery, I de- 
sired to have their seeds destroyed. I was 
studying the things of salvation experimentally, 
and borrowed Wesley s sermons and Fletcher s 
writings. I knew that I was justified and that 
grace was complete in itself. I was regenerated 
and could grow, developing strength as a tree 
does ; but I differed from a tree, having intelli- 
gence, memory and conscience, which a tree has 
not. Justification w T as received by faith and was 
complete. The desire for entire sanctification 
was begotten, and had its com7nencemeni in con- 
version. Could I not have that completed ? I 
7 



9 8 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



was tempted not to seek entire purity because 
of so fezv witnesses of this grace. Then fear 
possessed me, lest I should offend God if /did 
not ardently seek and obtain all the grace pro- 
vided. And the doctrines of saving grace be- 
came more sharply outlined and more definite 
in my view. It was not an ambition to be a dis- 
tinguished Christian that prompted me to seek 
heart purity. I was hungering and thirsting to 
be filled. I was zealous, and happy in working 
for Jesus, with no backsliding tendencies. 
Many t 1 m e s I walked several miles to be in a 
prayer-meeting or love-feast. My friends told 
me I was too zealous, and would injure my 
health by over-work. But my answer was, "I 
would rather wear out than rust out." Work- 
ing for God is health-preserving. 

One pleasant evening in autumn, I retired 
beyond the city limits to a sequestered spot for 
prayer, having fasted during the day. I stood 
in silence before God in serious thoughtfulness. 
I said, in low whispers. "O God, I sought par- 
don of Thee, through Jesus Christ, Thy Son — 
and pardon came. Thou didst give me the wit- 



FIRST CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCES. 99 



ness of it by Thy Blessed Spirit. Now, I come 
to Thee to receive Thy indwelling presence to 
purify my soul and keep me. Show me Thy 
will concerning my request, O Lord. If thou 
wilt not be pleased to grant it, let me know it, 
and I will cease to pray for it." I kneeled down 
with a vow that I would not rise until I received 
an answer from Gpd. Having prayed about 
twenty minutes the answer came. It was a soul- 
pervading presence of holiness ! It gave me 
the serenest feeling ever experienced. I arose 
with the consciousness of God within me and 
all around me. There was no exuberant joy, 
but calmness and conscious power. I was 
"light in the Lord," and earth had lost its at- 
tractions. While walking, it seemed as though 
the air bore me up, or that I had w T ings. O, the 
prediousness of Christ — there was sin-killing 
energy in the very sound of His name, Jesus ! 
A gun was fired off by some one near me, w T hich 
did not in the least startle me ! 

The future eifects of this blessing received 
were not much in thought — I was absorbed with 
the present. No theory, or policy influenced me ; 



100 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



no mode of conduct was defined. I had " lived," 
in all good conscience, " before God " since con- 
version ; and now had received a distinct witness 
of being cleansed from all sin, "from all un- 
righteousness." It was soon made manifest that 
it was in accordance with Scripture teaching, 
and with Wesley's and Fletcher's testimony. My 
state of mind and heart remained the same, 
wherever I might be. It was not ecstacy, but 
great peace continued. " Love unfeigned " was 
abiding in me. It kept me thinking more of 
God than of myself. There was increased 
knowledge of spiritual things. I became satis- 
fied that I had learned the " way of the Lord 
more perfectly," and that no truth could be 
successfully arrayed against it. I could now 
love my enemies, forgive injuries, and do good 
to such as despitefully used me. There was no 
need to be exhorted to confess the blessing. 
"Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth 
speaketh." The cleansing, and keeping-me- 
clean process, has remained ever since. It is as 
clear and distinct as what I received in justifica- 
tion. My own part of this great blessing has 



FIRST CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCES. lOI 



infirmities. God's part is perfect; and that part I 
confess. 

This chapter may be appropriately closed with 
a quotation from the 64th lecture of Rev. Joseph 
Cook — " Under irreversible natural law, there 
can be no blessedness without holiness. Here I 
leave you face to face with the nature of things, 
the authority that dazzled Socrates. God's om- 
nipotence cannot force blessedness on a soul 
that has lost the predominant desire to be holy. 
Omniscience cannot make happy a man who loves 
what God hates, and hates what God loves. 

"If you fall into predominant dissimilarity 
of feeling with God, it is out of His power to 
give you blessedness. Undoubtedly we are of 
all men most miserable, unless, with our 
deliverance from the guilt of sin there comes 
to us also deliverance from the love of it. With- 
out holiness, there can be no blessedness ; but 
there can be no holiness without a predominant 
love of what God loves, and hate of what God 
hates. We grow wrong ; we allow ourselves to 
crystalize in habits that imply a loss of the 
desire to be holy ; and at last, having made up 



102 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



our minds not to love predominantly what God 
loves, and hate what He hates, we are amazed, 
that we have not blessedness. But the universe 
is not amazed. The nature of things is but an- 
other name for the Divine Nature. God would 
not be God if there could be blessedness without 
holiness. ,, 



CHAPTER V. 



WALKING IN THE LIGHT. — CALL TO PREACH. 
" For the joy of the Lord is your strength." — Neh. viii. 10. 

God reveals Life, Truth, and Light to us, as 
we are able to apprehend and appreciate them. 
A young convert does not receive all that is 
to be known of Christ in the first Gospel lesson 
imparted. The idea of praying for entire sanc- 
tification never enters into the mind of the un- 
regenerate. The first need I felt, was reconcilia- 
tion with God. Then, after being reconciled, the 
need of entire purity. After I had, for a while, 
the witness of being justified by faith, a plane 
was reached which gave me a farther out- 
look. I saw more land to be possessed. By fast- 
ing, prayer, and Scripture-searching, class meet- 
ing and other exercises, advanced ideas of the 
doctrine and promises of holiness were received. 

[103] 



104 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



My knowledge of Christ, and His provision for 
my need, greatly increased. I received by ex- 
perience the knowledge of entire sanctification as 
Wesley taught it ; and as it is now held in the 
M. E. Church. 

What is politic to believe or do in religious 
matters has not been in my thought. The in- 
quiry has ever been, what is truth ? Being hon- 
est with my conscience, and sincere with God, I 
could not avoid a cordial belief of Christian 
doctrines as contained in the Scriptures. I never 
could accept doctrinal teaching, on human au- 
thority alone. This is done too frequently. God 
has given us a conscience, and if we will be led 
by the Spirit, we may know what is pleasing to 
Him. While the blessed Word and Spirit are 
within our reach, we need not go astray. " If 
any man will do his will, he shall know of the 
doctrine, whether it be of God. " It does not 
require extraordinary talent or learning to do 
the will of God. We may through grace comply 
with Divine requirements. 

The Christian enjoying full salvation is 
tempted and tried in a peculiar manner. The 



WALKING IN THE LIGHT. 



world, and worldly professors, will not sympa- 
thize with him. Many, in their blind zeal for 
the cause of God, have endeavored to make re- 
ligion popular with the world; thinking, vainly, 
that it would by this means spread more rapidly. 
God's dear ones have suffered from utterances 
by the pulpit and press, teaching that the world 
knows and acknowledges the righteous ; and if 
this recognition is not manifested it is their 
fault, and their profession is thus invalidated. 
But the carnal mind is what it ever has been, 
and the world will love its own. " And all that 
will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer per- 
secution." Let the pure in heart, therefore, not 
forget that there is no better way to walk in, 
than the way of the cross. " In the world ye 
shall have tribulation, but in me ye shall have 
peace." The world will never be right, until 
u All shall know the Lord from the least unto 
the greatest." 

It is popular, as yet, to confess sin in a 
wholesale way, saying, " We all sin," making 
no distinction whatever " between him that 
serves God, and him that serves him not." This 



I06 THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 

was a great stumbling-block to me in my sinful 
course. Real confession of known sins is a good 
thing when done in a Scriptural manner. But, an 
indefinite confession made under a false idea of 
humility is solemn mockery, and hateful to God. 
Suppose the Bible contained but one declaration 
that man could not be saved from sin, would it 
not be an overwhelming calamity? But if man 
had been the originator of the Bible, and its in- 
terpreter to our race, we would have had some- 
thing like that. It would have contained no 
threatenings of punishment to the finally im- 
penitent. But we have no such Bible. It 
teaches us explicitly the " exceeding sinfulness 
of sin," and directs us to Christ as a Saviour to 
the uttermost. 

In seeking entire sanccification, we should be 
assured of our justification, by the witness of 
the Spirit, which is more than mere conscious- 
ness. It is before consciousness, and essential 
to it. It is God speaking to us, while conscious- 
ness is the answer of our souls to the Spirit's 
voice. Just as surely as we are truly justified by 
faith we will have the Spirit of God to witness, 



WALKING IN THE LIGHT. 



I07 



with our spirits, to this fact. Let no one seek 
entire sanctification, until the fact of justifica- 
tion is well assured. I think there would be 
more witnesses of full salvation in the Church if 
the clear witness of justification were more 
prevalent. 

Purity of heart should be sought as a dis- 
tinct blessing. The mind should be definitely 
fixed upon that "one thing!" It is a divine 
gift, instantaneously received by faith. Objec- 
tions made against entire sanctification are 
theoretical and not based on experience. They 
come from a lack of experience, and of look- 
ing at the subject through a sin-colored medium. 

" What can we reason but from what we 
know." Persons have damaged the cause of 
Christ, no doubt, by professing the " Higher 
Life," when their life did not correspond with 
their profession. But, do such deluded ones 
make it excusable for us to neglect this " great 
salvation "? Real experience satisfies with sav- 
ing knowledge. The world will speak well of 
its own morality ; but when the blood of the 
Lamb, and the word of testimony, which give 



Io8 THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 

"victory over the world," are exulted in, by 
faith, there is opposition from the carnal mind. 
The Spirit's sword has two edges, and they are 
keen and piercing. "The precious," by it, will 
be separated from "the vile." The genuine will 
be hated, but God will guard His own from the 
assaults of Satan, and all his emissaries. Aside 
from the Spirit and the Word of Truth, operating 
through the channels of human thought, there 
could be no genuine Christian experience. 
Fancy and imagination may manifest strange 
phenomena, as in Spiritualism ; but they lack the 
elements of good fruit and truthful uniformity. 
A living, moving, transforming power leads 
believers to " search the Scriptures," to bring 
about results of " good report." It was, there- 
fore, my custom each day, to hold up my experi- 
ence before the Gospel mirror, that its likeness 
and superscription might be seen. 

I had not been long in the "good old way" 
before Satan assaulted me strangely and power- 
fully. My. mind was active. Sanctifying grace 
does not exempt from temptation. Somehow I 
began to reason about the nature of the soul. It 



WALKING IN THE LIGHT. 



is not proper to particularize as to this Satanic 
process of reasoning, by which subtle sophistries 
were presented to my mind. They were not 
entertained ; but the wicked fallacies suggested 
were unpleasant. I went to the Parsonage, and 
made my case known to Rev. Solomon Higgins. 
He said it was a perplexing matter, and proposed 
prayer. We each prayed. Divine help came, and 
I have never been assailed in like manner since. 
Had I mistaken the temptation for a sentiment, and 
cherished it, it might have remained with me 
through life. Shortly afterward I read the able 
essay of Samuel Drew, on the " Immateriality 
and Immortality of the Soul," with profit. About 
this time my pastor gave me a class to lead, and 
Exhorter's license, that I might be profitably 
employed. Methodism furnished me with valu- 
able instruction and healthful exercise. It was 
to me a system of saving doctrines and appli- 
ances, adapted to my necessities. This testi- 
mony is given, not in the spirit of bigotry, but 
in gratitude to God for these instrumentalities. 

Exercising my functions of "Class leader" 
and "Exhorter" in the M. E. Church, afforded 



no 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



me the best opportunities to cultivate my facul- 
ties, and help others in preparing for usefulness 
and heaven. I did not become a Methodist 
from policy, or by the influence of example ; my 
early parental training rendered me averse to it. 
It was from co?iviction alone, which could not be 
ignored without guilt, God looking at me from 
every quarter, I devoted myself therefore to the 
church's cause in that particular fold with all 
possible earnestness. 

In leading class I learned good lessons from 
the testimony of the members. It led me to 
think of them and their spiritual needs, and to 
pray more definitely for them. It required me 
to be spiritual and to have fresh experience each 
week. Class meetings, when properly conducted, 
are very promotive of spiritual profit. They be- 
get pure Christian friendship, bringing forth 
much fruit to the glory of God. What would 
the Methodist Church have been to-day had it 
not been for this institution? I made diligent 
use of my exhorter's license, as there was oppor- 
tunity, having no desire to hold an office with- 



WALKING IN THE LIGHT. 



Ill 



out fulfilling the obligations imposed. God 
was pleased to give me fruit of my labor. 

In less than two years after my conversion I 
began to think, " with fear and trembling," that 
I might be called to preach. This was kept to 
myself for a while. The conviction of a divine 
call to preach the Gospel was not agreeable to 
my natural inclination. It came to me as a 
cross. I did not want to believe it, and made 
excuses to set it aside. At this juncture, Rev. 
Geo. G. Cookman wrote a letter, urging me not 
to stifle the convictions of duty brought by the 
Holy Spirit. And other ministers and members 
of the Church spoke to me on the subject with 
tenderness. 

The call to preach was strong, but I was not 
in favor of irregularities in the Church. I said 
to myself, if I am required to preach, God will 
make it known to me by outward signs as echoes 
to my convictions ; which He did. The brethren 
judged from my exhortations that I ought to 
preach. Before they gave me license, at their 
request a trial was made, unsuccessfully, and I 
hoped to be excused. But fearing the Lord's 



112 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



displeasure, I at length yielded to the voice of 
the Church. 

In the year 1837, four years after I was con- 
verted, I received license to preach. As a local 
preacher I served the Church four years, preach- 
ing nearly every Sabbath, either in the city or in 
churches in the adjacent neighborhoods. Being 
" assistant post-master/' as well as " letter- 
carrier," I was very busy every day during the 
week. On Sabbath I would walk five or six 
miles to my preaching places, preach twice or 
thrice, and then return home at night on foot 
and alone, happy to have such gracious privi- 
leges. 

A missionary sermon was announced to be 
preached in the M. E. Church, Greene street, 
New York, by Rev. Henry B. B as com, subse- 
quently Bishop, which drew together a large 
concourse. In company with a number of others 
from Newark, I went to hear it. The sermon in 
some respects was unparalleled, in my estima- 
tion. The text was, " I believed, and therefore 
have I spoken ; we also believe, and therefore 
speak," II. Cor. iv. 13. Professor Bascom was then 



WALKING IN THE LIGHT. 



in his prime, and had a noble presence. In man- 
ly appearance he had few equals. His matter 
was pure gospel, his manner natural and with- 
out affectation. He possessed rare genius, and 
could not well be imitated. He was argumenta- 
tive, logical, and had a vivid imagination. His 
style was stately and his discourses were full 
of illustrations. His gestures were faultless. 
The great assemblage was charmed by the " rich 
thunder of his awful voice," and the whole ser- 
mon was " majestically grand." It was a storm 
of eloquence ; but it left the "bow in the cloud." 
Some have criticised Bascom for his high- 
wrought imagery and exuberance of language. 
But being born a genius, he occupied his own 
sphere. 

The minister of the Gospel is divinely quali- 
fied, chosen and called to a God-given work. 
Man may not judge rightly concerning him. 
Bascom's sermon greatly strengthened my faith, 
leaving me to apprehend more distinctly the 
rocky foundations of Christianity. 

The Lord called even me to preach the Word, 
and I felt the conviction. This call was as clear as 
8 



ii4 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



my obligation to be a follower of Christ. My 
littleness, compared with Bascom and others, 
was painfully manifest, and I had temptations 
to turn aside from the path of duty. But I was 
shut up to the necessity of compliance or non- 
compliance. I desired to stay in Newark with 
my Christian friends, who would, I thought, be 
charitable toward my eccentricities. I loved 
child-like simplicity, and did not aspire to a 
lofty position. The vocation of an itinerant 
Methodist minister is no trifling matter. To 
this ministry I was called. Shall I be ashamed 
of the way that God has led me ? No ; never ! 

Paul, John Wesley, William Taylor, and 
others have set an example which it is safe to 
follow. Will not God multiply such ambassa- 
dors as William Taylor ere long, that "the 
heathen may be given to Christ for his inheri- 
tance "? " He shall not fail, nor be discouraged 
until He have set judgment in the earth, and the 
isles shall wait for His law." 

The Church should insist that every candidate 
for the ministry be divinely called. The minis- 
ter himself should not be satisfied without such 



WALKING IN THE LIGHT. 



"5 



witness. It will help him in his faith, studies, 
pastoral visits, pulpit, and all ministerial exer- 
cises. God's approval will thus be given, ren- 
dering him effective in the gospel field. 

As a local preacher I was willing, and my 
allotment joyful. One Sabbath morning, hav- 
ing an engagement to preach at Springfield, I 
rode there on horseback. It was after a long 
rain-storm, and the streams were swollen. Not 
thinking of this I turned my horse to wade 
through the brook, instead of going over the 
bridge, as I should have done. Being thor- 
oughly wet, I was chilled, for it was in the Fall 
of the year. When I arrived at the church, hav- 
ing emptied my boots of the water, it was time 
to commence service ; I was cold, and shivered 
while preaching. 

After preaching, according to custom, I led 
class. A good sister remarked " that the sermon 
had profited her, for she had been led to pray 
for the preacher, seeing that he trembled so under 
the weight of the cross ! She thanked the Lord 
that Brother Scarlett had gracious help to bear 
it." I did not think it worth while to explain, 



n6 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



I preached the truth of God's Word accord- 
ing to my ability — concerning sin and hell as 
well as holiness and heaven. Can we love 
Jesus, and not believe all his words ? Nay, 
verily. A Universalist heard me preach, and 
called me "the brimstone man!" He lived in 
Newark and met me often. He became ill, and 
during his sickness thought of my preaching, 
which he had so much disliked. He grew worse 
and sent for me. It was a " rainy day ; " but I 
went. My visit was welcome. I read the 
Bible and prayed with him. He was converted 
in a day or two, and w T as very happy. He sent 
for his old Universalist friends to come and see 
him and hear of his "joy in the Lord," but not 
one came. He died in peace. " All is well that 
ends well." Christians, and none others, die well. 
Preaching the Gospel was joyous indeed, but it 
was "the joy of the Lord." I thought of the 
scrutiny through which all must pass in the 
coming judgment, and the accounts to be ren- 
dered. Rejoicing in Jesus has always been a 
great help to my faith, strengthening me in my 
work. Praising the Lord aloud from the heart, 



WALKING IN THE LIGHT. 



117 



by the help of the comforting Spirit, is an ex- 
ercise " disallowed indeed of men," but helpful 
to such as desire to be " transformed by the re- 
newing of their minds." It exalts Christ and 
glorifies God. 

Many times, on Sabbath mornings, I walked 
from Newark to what is now called " Mont- 
clair," " Speertown," and " Verona," preaching 
three times, then walking back at night. Some 
times I spit blood, and was reproved by the 
" wise and prudent " for over-exertion. My 
naturally sanguine temperament, no doubt, 
tended to this result. Yet, " wearing out is bet- 
ter than rusting out." 

I supplied the pulpit of the M. E. Church in 
Orange for a number of months, regularly, the 
preacher in charge being absent soliciting mate- 
rial aid for the Church. In those days Metho- 
dist preachers had vacations for the Church's 
sake, instead of their own. I walked from 
home every Sabbath morning after breakfast, and 
preached, remaining throughout the day, visiting 
and praying in families, and walked home after 
preaching in the evening. I became acquainted 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



with Rev. Dr. Hillyer, and was pleased with his 
genial Christian deportment. He was a popular 
Presbyterian minister. Brother Kelsal, a prom- 
inent member of the Church, made me a present 
of a hat ; but I did not like it, the brim was too 
broad, making me look like a Quaker. I gave it 
to a reformed inebriate ; but he soon fell from 
his' temperance standing and sold it for drink. 

Gn the occasion of my first visit to Orange, 
I had an experience which is held in lively re- 
membrance. Being a stranger to the congrega- 
tion, no one invited me to dinner, so I took a 
rural, sauntering walk. I found blackberries 
provided for me, which I ate with a good relish, 
being both hungry and happy. I preached again 
in the evening, and walked home, having a good 
relish for supper, provided by my help-meet. 
The next time I preached there, the inquiry was 
made where I dined on the last Sabbath. I gave 
a suitable account of my noon repast. After 
that I had no lack of invitations to dine. At 
this time I made the acquaintance of " Archy 
Lyon" and family, and enjoyed their hospitality. 
" Archy," as he was called, was among the first 



WALKING IN THE LIGHT. 



II 9 



Methodists in Orange. He is still living, and 
the feeder of thousands every year, at his camp- 
meeting boarding tent, at Mount Tabor. By 
him the hungry are filled, and none are sent 
empty away. He provides " blackberries/' di- 
vested of their briars, in due season. 

In the winter of that year, an incident occur- 
red that some may yet remember. One very 
cold day, during a severe snow-storm, while 
Rev. Wesley Hudson sat in the altar, I preached. 
Brother Hudson was a genius, well-cultivated. 
His eyes were of diamond brightness. He was 
of quick perception and a good judge of 
preaching. Being aware of this, I was not in- 
sensible of what might be his criticism of my 
sermon. I felt the piercing glances of his up- 
turned eyes, and profited by them. But when I 
came down from the high pulpit, he met me, 
looking sharply in my face, saying, "Now 
brother John, you had better tie up your mouth / I 
did not relish his advice, and replied with emo- 
tion, " Brother Hudson, T did the best I could, un- 
der the circumstances, and you, yourself, could 
have done no more." He quickly perceived my 



120 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



misapprehension of his meaning, and explained, 
u I find no fault with your sermon, John ; it was 
good gospel ; but I don't want you to take cold 
this stormy weather, so I advise you to tie up 
your mouth." After this I became better ac- 
quainted with Brother Hudson, at the residence 
of Mr. Henry Wild, in Bloomfield, whose sister 
he married. He had preaching talents of un- 
common brilliancy, and a heart of the tenderest 
sensibility. The promise of great usefulness 
was checked by his flaming zeal in the cause of 
the Master. Like the sainted Summerfield, his 
sword cut through its sheath, and God took 
him. 

The year 1837 was noted for general financial 
trouble, throughout the whole country. It was 
"hard times," everywhere. Business of all kinds 
was dull. Bread-stuffs were dear, and all kinds 
of provisions scarce. Many of the rich were 
made poor. The poor had extreme suffering. 
The full extent of destitution, was observable by 
God alone. " Why does God allow such calam- 
ities to fall upon mankind ?" some may ask. 
Inscrutable is the administration of an all- 



Walking itf the light. 



121 



wise Providence. " His ways are past finding 
out." Can we justly suppose that it would be 
better for our race if prosperity should always 
prevail everywhere ? What would be the prob- 
able outcome of such a state of things ? 
Would men be likely, under such circumstances, 
to turn to God " with purpose of heart "? No, 
indeed ! " They would desire not the knowledge 
of His ways." We would be a God-forsaken 
world plunging into a sea of horrid vices. Our 
ruin would be complete. We need chastise- 
ment for our well-being. 

While the times were realized to be hard, 
intemperance made them worse. The Christian 
portion of our people, with the best of our cit- 
izens, thought an impetus might be given to 
the cause of Temperance. The poorer classes, 
which were the more needy, having the lesser 
means for a livelihood, would, in many cases, 
spend their little for intoxicating drinks, to 
drown their sorrow, leaving destitution at 
home. This was observed, and led to the 
stirring up of Temperance activities. Mr. James 
Aiken was appointed "New Jersey State 



122 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



Temperance Agent." He was a man of note, 
a peculiar genius, somewhat eccentric, but true 
to the cause. Soon after he arrived in Newark, 
he inquired for John Scarlett. Coming up to 
me, near my residence, he saluted me thus, " Is 
this John Scarlett?" "It is," I answered. 
" Well," said he, with a " merry twinkle in his 
eye," " I heard that you were as odd as the 
zig-zag lightning," — but u you are not such a 
person as you were described to be. You 
eccentric ! I don't believe it. Your nose and 
chin are not sharp ; and your features are but 
ordinary. I tell you that an eccentric person 
has features like an old-fashioned gun-lock /" 
This was my introduction to James Aiken, or his 
introduction to me. He did good service in the 
Temperance cause, although between him and 
myself I think the observe?- was more odd, than 
the observed. He delivered a number of lectures 
in the different churches in the city, and was 
very popular. Some of the older people in 
Newark may yet remember the address he 
delivered in Halsey Street Methodist Church. 
He ascended the pulpit, and laid on the Bible 



WALKING IN THE LIGHT. 



I23 



a bundle of 'manuscripts \ and said, " I suppose you 
don't like to see me come here with such a pile 
of old rusty notes !" The house was completely 
packed, and he poured forth a pathetic and 
eloquent appeal for the cause of Temperance, 
taking not the least notice of the papers before 
him. 

I was desirous of seeing fruit of my labors, 
not so much to prove my call to the ministry as 
to enjoy it, as a matter pleasing to God. This 
desire was born at my conversion, and has 
strengthened in receiving fulness of salvation. 
So having prayed for a man for four years, 
every day, on the day I thought of giving him 
up, I received the news of his conversion ! 
One evening, in a prayer-meeting in the Metho- 
dist Church in Franklin Street, I exhorted with 
great plainness, showing the danger of living in 
sin. Satan assaulted me severely. Near mid- 
night, a knock at the door awakened me, and I 
was importuned, by a messenger, to go with 
him, to visit one who had heard my exhortation 
and was hurt. It was a stormy night, snow 
flakes were flying thick and fast. Before arriv- 



124 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT* 



ing at the house, in Orchard Street, I heard the 
cries of the penitent lady / She was in an " upper - 
room," and as I entered, was on her knees, a 
woman on either side holding her hands, tell- 
ing her "that God was not deaf!" She was 
praying, lustily, " O Lord, have mercy on my 
soul !" I asked her, what was the matter ? She 
said she was such a great sinner, and had felt so 
wretched ever since she had been to the prayer- 
meeting, and she thought I might perhaps help 
her to obtain religion. I read a portion of 
Scripture, prayed with her, gave her advice, and 
in less than twenty minutes she was converted, 
and shouted " Glory to God " as loudly as she 
had cried in her distress. I left her, and went 
home, as happy as I could well be on earth. The 
touches of falling snow-flakes on my face, in 
my Master's service, were like the finger- 
touches of caressing angels ! Having but 
recently preached on the text, "If any man will 
do His will he shall know of the doctrine," — this 
was a blessed application. 

The Gospel is designed to save sinners in 



WALKING IN THE LIGHT. 



125 



its own peculiar way. It is the " power of God 
unto salvation, to every one that believeth." It 
is God's "working in us, to will and to do;" 
and our working with Him, in His own way. 
One Sabbath afternoon, while preaching in a 
store-house, on the wharf, which was fitted up 
for religious meetings, I had not proceeded far 
in my discourse, on the subject of prayer, before 
a sailor, an " old salt," spoke out loud enough 
for all to hear, saying, " What will a man do if 
he cannot pray?" I replied, " God will help 
him." Very soon he again asked, "When must 
a man pray ?" I answered, "Pray now, for now 
is the accepted time." He immediately arose, 
turned around, and kneeled by his seat, and 
began in the most earnest manner to call upon 
God to have mercy upon him. He confessed 
that he had beaten his wife, and turned his 
father out of doors, in the old country. In 
about twenty minutes he and four others were 
converted. Some brethren remonstrated with 
me for permitting disorder in Divine service, in 
allowing that sailor to interrupt me as he did, 
quoting, " Let all things be done decently, and 



126 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



in order." I answered, " Surely God is always 
offended at what is disorderly and indecent ; 
but ne requires something to 'be done.' In the 
present instance, He has moved me to preach so 
that a vile sinner has felt his guilt, and obtained 
salvation. God will have a short work. He 
cut my sermon ' short, in righteousness,' and 
saved five sinners. Has he not done it decently, 
and in perfect order, — yet, 1 disallowed of 
men ?' " 

"Upon all the glory," of salvation, "there 
shall be a defense." A protracted meeting had 
been started in the old Methodist Church in Jer- 
sey City. I received an invitation to preach on a 
week-night. The railroad was built, but horse- 
cars ran on it at that time. Shortly after getting 
in a car I was disgusted at the profanity of one 
of the passengers. I arose and said, " If I hear 
any more of such language I will avail myself 
of the law." The man flew into a rage, asking 
me, "What I would do about it ?" I said, " I will 
show you, sir. I will pray in this car as loudly 
as you can swear, and avail myself of the law." 
No more swearing was heard, but the laugh 



WALKING IN THE LIGHT. 



127 



was turned on my antagonist. I went to the 
church, and preached, and had a good season 
in prayer- meeting. A number came to the 
altar, and some were converted. After the close 
of the meeting I went to the car that stood on 
the track waiting for persons coming from the 
theatre. Seating myself in the car, a man en- 
tered, using profane language. I said to him, 
" You must be in the wrong place. We don't 
swear in this car. We are decent people." He 
offered to bet that he was as decent as I was. 
"You must be mistaken," I remarked, "for 
we are not gamblers. We do not bet here." 
He then doubled his fist, and put it against my 
head, threateningly. Just at that point a large, 
muscular man, towering over him, took him 
by the neck, making him sit down, saying, " I 
am a big sinner myself, but I will not see a 
Christian abused if I can help it. I know this 
man by reputation, and have been reproved by 
him for my bad conduct. But no violent hands 
shall be laid upon him while I am near." 

While laboring as a local preacher my rela- 
tions with the pastors of the two Churches in 



128 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



Newark were fraternal. The recalling of their 
names awakens tender feelings. I rejoice in 
prospect of meeting them when earthly scenes 
shall have passed away. Religion is the bright 
central fountain of all the streams of moral ex- 
cellence. It is king of all real pleasures, and 
will last forever. Revs. George G. Cook man, 
Solomon Higgins, Levi Scott, late Bishop, John 
S. Porter, William Roberts, James Ayars, 
Thomas M'Carroll, and David W. Bartine, are 
names precious in my memory. I often think 
of pleasant conversations had with them. Six 
of them, at least, have gone home to their re- 
ward. 

Rev. Dr. Bartine was the pastor of the Church 
in Franklin street, during the last two years of 
my residence in Newark. Brother Bartine was 
a warm friend, highly prized. He reminded me 
of the late Dr. Charles Pitman. There were 
some points of resemblance between them. 
They had each a fine physique, — stout, yet well- 
proportioned. Nature made them both orators. 
Pitman had excellent traits, all his own. So 
had Bartine peculiar excellencies. Pitman was 



WALKING IN THE LIGHT. 



129 



a giant in the pulpit in his day. His voice was 
loud and trumpet-toned, when girded by the 
Spirit for the combat. His words were chosen 
ones, tha., like the fabled fire-taking arrow, from 
the bow of Ascestus, burned their way to every 
heart. I may have a bias in favor of Pitman on 
account of the benefit I received from his 
preaching ; but many agree with me that he had 
few equals. A soldier, at one of the large 
camp-meetings, listening to his preaching when 
in his best condition for the work, would be 
likely to think of the roar of cannon on the 
battle-field. " The slain of the Lord were 
many!" Bartine excelled Pitman in some par- 
ticulars. He excelled him in culture, logic, ac- 
curacy, and polish. He filled the pulpit with 
dignity equal to Pitman, and was at home in 
showing the need and infinite efficacy of the 
grand atonement, and gloried in the Cross ; 
but he excelled him in the arrangement of his 
discourses, and in voice and gesture. His voice 
had a soft and silvery tone. His golden sen- 
tences rang out on the ear like " chiming 
music" on the still air of a quiet summer morq- 
9 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



ing. He was not so much like an Alpine ava- 
lanche as Pitman, but more magnetic. Who can 
describe the charm that accompanied his best 
efforts? It was like " Melody sweetly played in 
tune." Who could detect the least awkward- 
ness in his manner? His fine, large head, lus- 
trous eyes, beaming with benevolence, and his 
whole frame animated, gave him an attractive 
appearance. I do not in the least detract from 
the superior merits of Dr. Pitman, when I speak 
of the " things of good report," in the case of 
Dr. Bartine. They belong to the same family, 
and have been owned by the same Lord. True 
Gospel preachers have evinced more variety and 
versatility of talent than almost any other 
class. Dr. Pitman winged his words like flam- 
ing javelins to pierce the enemy, and put the 
alien hosts to flight. Bartine won by pleasing 
strokes of eloquence. They were models of 
true Methodist preaching. They have each on 
their shields been carried home ! 

Once, at a camp-meeting, not far from 
Spri?igfield, or New Providence, N. J., while Dr. 
Bartine was preaching, a lady was powerfully 



WALKING IN THE LIGHT. 



wrought on by the Spirit of God. She lost her 
strength, and fell to the ground. She was " ab- 
sent from the body," and lost to all conscious- 
ness of earthly things. Before she recovered 
consciousness, a physician, not acquainted with 
the power of God, pierced her arm deeply with a 
needle, to test her state, but she felt nothing. 
Many came to look upon her face, which wore an 
aspect of indescribable serenity. Some, while 
beholding her features, were seized with "fear 
and trembling ;" while others had emotions of 
sacred awe. There was an unearthly luster in 
her countenance, a kind of celestial light, 
making me think of angels and heaven ! Hav- 
ing been in a trance myself, I appreciated her 
condition. The power of the Spirit in her be- 
lieving heart had prostrated her body ; and 
therefore her state differed widely from an un- 
conscious transport from earthly scenes by any 
other cause. Some were in bad temper, and 
railed against the lady for being so weak-minded; 
bnt she was sincere, and, no doubt, God in- 
tended to reach the hearts of some by this mani- 
festation. 



132 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



I had a dream about this time ; it was but a 
dream, and it may pass for what it is worth. I 
have related it in seasons of revival with good 
effect, apparently. I believe that dreams do 
sometimes come from God. We have an in- 
stance in Job, chap. iv. 12-17. Eliphaz said, 
" Now a thing was secretly brought to me, and 
mine ear received a little thereof. In thoughts 
from the visions of the night, when deep • sleep 
falleth on men, fear came upon me, and trem- 
bling which made all my bones to shake. Then 
a spirit passed before my face ; the hair of my 
flesh stood up ; it stood still, but I could not 
discern the form thereof ; an image was before 
mine eyes ; there was silence, and I heard a 
voice saying : Shall mortal man be more just 
than God ?" 

I had been striving to reclaim a backslider. 
It was thought that he had been converted 
through my instrumentality. One night I had 
a singular dream concerning him. It seemed as 
though we stood at the foot of a wooded hill, 
talking together. The hill was of mild decliv- 
ity, ascending in a northerly direction, while 



WALKING IN THE LIGHT. 



*33 



toward the east it declined, sloping to a low, 
dark valley. His movement appeared to be 
toward the valley, and mine was along the as- 
cending ridge. Our separate movements, as we 
talked, formed an angle from the point of de- 
parture, increasing the distance between us. The 
burden of my conversation was to have him 
walk along with me, for Christ was leading me. 
We were both going north, but he downward 
and I upward ! I was calling to him, and he was 
answering me. My voice was beseeching him 
to take an upward course along with me, and 
his reply in declining to do so became fainter 
and fainter. I became despondent in regard to 
him, as we were receding so far from each other ; 
in fact, I gave him up for lost, for I heard his 
voice no more! Turning my face to go west- 
ward, I beheld coming toward me a " chariot of 
fire, and horses of fire," having the guidance of 
"One like unto the Son of Man !" The trees 
offered no resistance to the fiery wheels, moved 
as it seemed by miraculous power. As the won- 
derful personage alighted, no noise was heard. 
He seemed to be like the Son of God on the 



1 34 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



Mount of Transfiguration. He stooped and 
touched a small green bush of spreading leaves, 
and it instantly parted. He breathed on its 
branching foliage, and it became a flaming bush 
of beautiful brightness. It had a supernatural 
light ; and He gave it to me, saying : " Take 
this from Me, it will never go out/' I took it 
and looked, but he had vanished from my sight ! 
I then journeyed westward, holding the lighted 
bush in my hand, which was " a lamp to my feet 
and a light to my path," until I arrived at an 
open space of celestial pleasantness. I thought 
it was a place of purity, love, life, and unal- 
loyed blessedness. I awoke, and behold, it was 
a dream ! What was the final issue as respects 
the backslider eternity will reveal. 



CHAPTER VI. 



COMMENCEMENT OF ITINERANT LIFE. 

"Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice." — I. Sam. xv. 22. 

In the Spring of 1841, the session of the 
New Jersey Annual Conference was held in the 
city of Newark. I was received on trial in com- 
pany with W. P. Corbit, L. R. Dunn, and A. C. 
Vandewater. My classmates still live ; but how 
few remain of those who then met in that Con- 
ference ! 

To this body I had been recommended for 
three years in succession. On hearing of my 
reception it was quite a surprise, for I expected 
younger persons would be preferred. The reason 
why I desired to be recommended from year to 
year was to silence temptation if I was not re- 
ceived, and to answer the call of God if admitted. 
It was my purpose to lay aside every weight, 
and to "run with patience the race set before me." 

[i35] 



I36 THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



I had lived in Newark twenty-one years, 
nearly eight of which were of my Christian 
life, had formed a large acquaintance, and was 
kindly treated by many friends. For over seven 
years I had been connected with the post-office ; 
and four years engaged in preaching nearly 
every Sabbath ; conversing and praying with 
those of reputation. I had attended camp-meet- 
ings every summer, and helped in protracted 
meetings during the winter. Having studied 
the discipline of the M. E. Church, with its arti- 
cles of religion, my conscience was hemmed in 
on every side with truth. It was the best hem- 
ming-in ever experienced. 

Bishop Hedding presided at the Conference, 
and I was appointed to the " Rome and Wantage " 
Circuit, as junior preacher. Our residence was 
at Greenville. This Circuit included what now 
contains five charges. The filling of my ap- 
pointments required me to be absent from home 
most of the time ; and to travel every Sabbath 
from twelve to twenty miles, often preaching 
three times. The amount of my salary was less 
than three hundred dollars ! I studied and 



COMMENCEMENT OF ITINERANT LIFE. 137 



practised lessons of economy as well as theology, 
observing what I preached : " Owe no man." 

Seven hundred dollars per year had been 
promised to me in New York, in the post-office, 
and some of my friends said : " Why did you 
not take it ? You might be useful in many other 
ways besides preaching." I replied: " God has 
called me to preach the Word, and I see myself 
and destiny balanced as on a pivot. Obedience 
will lead me to Heaven, but disobedience will 
'turn me into Hell with all the nations that for- 
get God/ 4 To obey is better than sacrifice.' " 

There was a member of our Church who had 
the reputation of being a great talker^ although 
zealous in religion. She was a maiden lady 
who was getting somewhat advanced. She 
made us a visit when we were destitute of but- 
ter. I tried to buy of the neighbors, but could 
not, although it was called a " butter country." 
We treated our visitor to the best we had, and 
she reported our case to the richest members 
of the Church. The next Sabbath, while preach- 
ing, I observed more weeping than usual. Hav- 
ing finished my sermon, a wealthy member 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



arose and said : " I know that there is a real- 
ity in religion. Our brother Scarlett has been 
very happy in preaching to us this morning, but 
I have heard that he and his family are living 
on bread and molasses /" Quite a melting time 
ensued, and the next day nearly thirty pounds 
of butter were sent to us by a number of breth- 
ren. The maiden sister's tongue did us no harm. 

How careful should Christians be to main- 
tain good works, and ministers, especially, 
should "avoid the appearance of evil." We 
need always a discerning eye, that our good be 
not evil spoken of. Having purity of heart, we 
"think no evil," neither harbor groundless sus- 
picions of one another. A circumstance occur- 
red that will illustrate this. 

An old lady, a worthy member of the Metho- 
dist Church, in Greenville, lived not far from the 
parsonage. I had favorable opportunities of 
conversing with her often. She was wealthy, 
but plain in her dress, an " old-fashioned Metho- 
dist." She professed holiness, and lived a spot- 
less life. All who knew her had confidence in 
her profession. She and myself held the same 




COMMENCEMENT OF ITINERANT LIFE. 139 

doctrine, and had the same experience. She 
was in some sense " profitable to me in my min- 
istry," encouraging me to preach the gospel in 
its fulness. One Sabbath morning my theme 
was heart-purity. She seemed much pleased at 
the announcement of my text, " Blessed are the 
pure in heart, for they shall see God." And she 
rejoiced, "for a season," but a change came over 
her countenance, and she was apparently cast 
down. At the close of the service, as we 
were leaving, she gave me a severe, reprov- 
ing look, and said, "I have a bone to pick 
with you. Will you come and see me to- 
morrow?" I replied, "With pleasure, sister." I 
visited her the next morning, and found her 
somewhat dispirited over the low state of re- 
ligion in the Church, yet she received me with 
kindness. "Tell me, sister," I inquired, "what 
you have against me?" "Well," said she, "I 
took you to be a very deeply pious servant of 
God, but I must tell you that pride has not en- 
tirely left you. Why do you take so much 
pains with your hair in combing it so smoothly? 
I saw you put your hand up to smooth the locks 



140 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



over your forehead !" I responded, " Sister, I 
did not think of myself while I was preaching, 
and you should have had your mind on Christ/' 

No model of outward conduct should be in 
the preacher's mind for him to imitate. His 
gestures should be from the spontaneous 
promptings of his nature. A cultivated lady of 
the Presbyterian Church advised me to preach 
without moving the body. To gratify her I 
made the experiment, holding on to the Bible 
with both hands. She heard me and advised me 
to follow my usual course, which was entirely 
agreeable to me. To be natural in preaching, 
requires careful and persevering study. The 
natural style of preaching is the most effective. 

A brief account of three camp-meetings that 
I attended on my first circuit may interest the 
reader. One was held near Wurtzborough, N. Y., 
and Copt. Ira Stoddard, an official member of our 
Church, took me there in his carriage. We 
started long before daylight. In the forenoon 
we heard a very eloquent sermon from the Pre- 
siding Elder, John C. Green, and the prayer- 
meeting following it was good. Sinners were 



COMMENCEMENT OF ITINERANT LIFE. 141 

converted. Here I saw James Horton. He 
called himself, u Uncle Jimmy" He was con- 
tinually singing, shouting and jumping, was 
one of the happiest men I ever saw, and success- 
ful in bringing souls to Christ. His love for 
Jesus was unbounded, and inquirers were eager 
for his advice. Not wishing to be known as a 
preacher, I sought to be in the praying tents 
helping seekers. But the Elder found me and 
insisted that I should preach in the afternoon. 
I endeavored to do so, and divine power came 
down upon the congregation. " Father Horton " 
shouted lustily, too happy to follow this world's 
rules of etiquette. While telling how God had 
brought me out of the darkness of sin and infi- 
delity, he cried out, " It served you right !" He 
had been rejoicing in the Lord so heartily and 
so long, that the uncommon gladness of his 
sanctified heart had photographed itself on his 
face. 

A camp-meeting was held at Sandyston, N. J., 
which I attended also. Meetings in the grove 
in those days were for the revival of God's 
work, for the sanctification of believers and the 



142 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



conversion of sinners. Architectural magnifi- 
cence and sumptuous fare were not associated 
therewith. iEsthetical taste was not displayed 
in building and decorating stately residences. 
Nature's charms, and grace, were the prominent 
attractions. A circle of tents, with uncarpeted 
floors, covered with straw, contrasting their 
pure white with the living emerald of leafy 
trees, and the yellow sunshine flecking with 
checkered beauty the holy place, made it good 
to be there. The preaching was in accordance 
with the God-prepared place. It was not the 
soothing eloquence that leaves the sinner in his 
slumbers. No opiates were administered to su- 
perinduce dreams of delusion concerning sin 
and its eternal retribution. Jesus Christ, in His 
teaching, was believed, and none of His words 
were doubted. The power of God was expect- 
ed to be displayed, not in a scientific way, but 
in demonstration of the Spirit. 

The next camp-meeting, I attended, was near 
Port Jervis, N. Y. Here Presiding Elder Man- 
ning Force desired me to preach, and the 
Lord graciously helped. My theme was " The 



COMMENCEMENT OF ITINERANT LIFE. 143 



gift of the Holy Ghost through faith in the Atone- 
ment" My closing remarks were as follows : 
" My brethren, the blessed promises form a wall 
of fire around you while you truly believe, and 
keep out all ' corruption which is in the world, 
through lust,' and the infinite ocean of divinity 
is above you, conveyed through the channels of 
the promises, by the way of atoning blood, into 
your believing hearts. Your own will, using the 
key of faith, opens the gate letting out corrup- 
tion, and bringing in the Spirit." There was 
considerable rejoicing, and Brother Baxter came 
and requested me to accompany him a little 
way, in the woods. When out of sight of the 
camp-ground, he turned around, and putting 
his hand on my shoulder, said : " Now, my dear 
brother, the Lord has powerfully blessed you ; 
don't be puffed up — behave yourself, that is all I 
have to say to you !" Brother Baxter's holy life 
and character were as marked as his eccentricities. 

Afternoon preaching was a rule on the cir- 
cuit, and was adhered to as strictly as in the 
morning and evening — this was the general 
custom among all denominations. It is not, 



i 4 4 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



however, the most favorable time, for the 
preacher or the hearer. During a very warm term 
in August, a brother, a member of our Church 
at Wantage, sometimes came to worship at what 
was called the "Red Church." He wished me to 
get a Mr. McR. to preach in the Red Church, 
on a certain afternoon — a very eloquent 
preacher, but using full notes. Brother D. 
was glad that the minister had consented to 
preach. He ate a hearty dinner, as was his 
custom. The afternoon was warm. He repaired 
to the Church to hear the sermon of the 
popular preacher. The house was densely 
crowded, and brother D. sat in a front seat. 
After preliminary exercises, the preacher com- 
menced. He had not gone far before brother 
D. fell asleep, and in his sleep dreamed. 
Raising his hands in a confused, choking 
manner, he cried out, u There! there! he is turn- 
ing over another leaf J" The entire congregation 
was startled by the sudden exclamation. The 
minister meanwhile kept his finger on the 
place of the last word which he had read. Wake- 



COMMENCEMENT OF ITINERANT LIFE. 145 



ful hearers and arousing preachers are in " the 
more excellent way I" 

The brother above named invited me, with 
my family, to visit him. A horse and buggy 
were hired for the purpose. My wife and 
youngest daughter accompanied me. We lived 
about ten miles from that brothers home. We 
spent a very pleasant time with our worthy, 
hospitable friend. We started home early 
because of the distance. Having a long hill to 
descend, when we had proceeded a short distance 
the horse, finding himself not agreeably har- 
nessed, became restive because of the vehicle 
pushing him along in an unusual manner He 
resorted to kicking, with unpleasant rapidity. 
The bright shoes of the animal came vividly in 
view. " Do let me get out, I'll walk !" said my 
wife, with uncommon earnestness. " No, Mary," 
I said, " pray, for I cannot stop the horse here." 
The bright shoes broke through the " dash- 
board," coming in close proximity to little 
Sarah's head, who was sitting in front of us. 
About half-way down the hill, a man was stand- 
ing looking at us and the kicking horse, in 
10 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



startling earnestness. I said to him, " Sir, how 
long do you think this horse will keep on 
kicking?" He looked both sad and comical, 
unable to answer me, and sat down upon a 
stone to consider the matter. At the bottom of 
the hill we stopped, and adjusted the harness. 
Although the shivering of the dashboard was to 
be regretted, there were no bones broken, for 
which we were thankful. 

We were accustomed in those days to hold 
temperance meetings. Christians, to prosper in 
religion, must be interested in the cause of 
temperance. 

I have endured some persecution, for my 
temperance thoughts, words and deeds. 

Once, at the funeral of a man who had died 
drunk, I used " great plainness of speech." I 
had ascertained that he had left the tavern late 
at night, where he had obtained liquor, and was 
found the next morning beside the road, dead. 
The frost had whitened his clothing, hair, and 
whiskers. I was called to officiate at his burial, 
in a private house. The rum-seller drew his 
chair close to where I stood, and very near the 



COMMENCEMENT OF ITINERANT LIFE. 147 



coffin. He was dressed in a suit of black, with 
a white cravat, looking more clerical than my- 
self. I had not spoken long before my feelings 
were all on fire. Laying my hand on the coffin, 
I said, " My friends, you are aware, no doubt, 
how this man died — how he received the last 
dose from the bar of this man on my left — who 
launched his soul, unsaved, into an awful 
eternity ! I wish I could call his ghost from that 
world, to stare this man in the face ! I will try. 
O, ghost of the departed, make, O make 
your appearance in this room ! Let this man 
know the heinousness of his crime !" I called 
out loudly the dead man's name twice. On 
going to the grave, I heard muttered threaten- 
ings, that were not pleasant to my ear. 

One bright morning, not long after the oc- 
currence, I was walking, not far from the tavern, 
and saw the keeper coming toward me, having 
a basket on his arm, with a clean white cloth 
over it. He approached me, and said, "Dominie, 
won't you take a little present from me ? I have 
killed a calf, and thought I would like to have 
you receive this. You hit me hard the other 



148 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



day, but it is all right. You see my sign is 
down, and I intend to do better. My good 
mother is a Methodist, she taught me good les- 
sons, and enforced them by a pious example." 
I took the veal, it was fine, and the "trimmings" 
were my temperance reflections ! 

The first year of my itinerant life, J, N. 
Crane was my colleague. He was in charge, and 
I gave him to understand that I would be obe- 
dient to his oversight as senior preacher. He 
was a true Christian gentleman, courteous and 
kind, and I profited by his wise counsel. 

I assisted in revival meetings in Milford, Pa., 
and in Middletown, N. Y., and many souls were 
converted. 

Reading and study were congenial to me, 
but the conversion of the soul was esteemed to 
be of more importance. My fare was scanty at 
times, and there were some hardships. For in- 
stance : walking a dozen miles through deep 
snow, and sleeping in houses with such defect- 
ive roofs that piles of snow would be on my bed 
in the morning. The people, in general, were 
kind ; and I remember them with a great deal 



COMMENCEMENT OP 4 ITINERANT LIFE. 149 



of pleasure, hoping to meet them in the better 
land. 

The second year my colleague was Richard 
Lanning. He was also preacher in charge, a 
man deeply pious, but in poor health. He only 
lived a few years after leaving Rome and Wan- 
tage circuit. He died on a stormy night, in the 
blissful hope of a glorious immortality. On 
coming home from Conference, which was held 
in Camden, N. J., I had to go by the way of 
Newburgh, N. Y., and on the steamboat became 
acquainted with William Miller, the noted 
originator of the " Millerite movement." He 
exhorted me vehemently to believe that Christ 
would come the next year, and that those hills 
on either side of the Hudson would melt down 
u with fervent heat." I told him I did not care 
when or how they burned, — that I was satisfied 
with " Christ in me, the hope of glory." My 
believing was to " the saving of the soul." 

We may be satisfied as to many future events, 
as to their occurrence, but the time thereof can- 
not be known until they become history. De- 
lusion fastens itself in the carnal mind, but 



150 THE ITINERANT ON FOOT* 

m * grace and truth," in all spiritual teaching, 

must be received by faith. The end of the world 
will come "as a thief in the night." The spiritu- 
ally minded may " discern the signs of the 
times," and be assured, when that solemn event 
is drawing nigh. Watchfulness is enjoined for 
the purpose of preparedness necessary to meet 
the Lord when He comes. Did we know the 
exact time of the end it would hinder the proper 
watchfulness of faithful souls. That is wisely 
kept concealed, it would harm us to know it. It 
would darken our views of probation — hinder 
faith, that works by love — stifle the ardor of 
prayer — " make void the law " — damage the 
work of the Gospel — diminish our love for one 
another — work evil in temporal matters — and, 
if possible, blur the brightness of the crown of 
life. We ought always to be cautious how we 
receive opinions that are new, by w T hich good 
men are thrown into the shade, disregarding 
the established order of things, and tending to 
cause divisions in the Church of Christ. 



CHAPTER VII. 



ITINERANCY ON FOOT, CONTINUED. 

" It pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save 
them that believe." — I. Cor. i. 21. 

The New Jersey Conference was held in 
1843, in New Brunswick, N. J. The members 
of our class were ordained Deacons by Bishop 
Morris, April 30th, which was my birthday. My 
appointment that year was to Stanhope Circuit 
without colleague. The circuit had twelve 
preaching places. 

At Conference I was entertained by my old 
friend, " John Helm," which was gratifying to 
us both. We talked over scenes of the past 
when we lived in Newark. Reminding him of 
good received from his teachings, he wept, in 
humility. Brother Helm was a good man, and 
wise to win souls. 

Hon. Peter Smith, of Waterloo, sent teams 

[151J 



152 



THE ITINERANT ON FOO?. 



to move my family and goods. Brother Smith 
was a steward, and leader in the Church, tak- 
ing great interest in religious matters. Being 
always given to cheerfulness, his generous 
heart wreathed his countenance in benignant 
smiles. " He rests from his labors, and his 
works do follow him." I also remember his 
father with gratitude. Gen. Smith loved the 
Church of his choice. Once, at a " Donation 
Visit " which was for my benefit, he handed me 
a roll of bills larger than usual on such occa- 
sions, for which I made an earnest acknowledg- 
ment, but he reproved me, saying, "Be still. You 
k?iow it is all right!" 

My walks were long in this field of labor. 
Many times after breakfast, I walked from Stan- 
hope to Sparta, twelve miles, preached, dined, 
and then walked to Hopewell, six miles, preach- 
ing again. x\fter supper, walked to Milton, 
three miles, and preached at night, making 
twenty-one miles for the day's travel. I know 
that this was too much " bodily exercise," but 
I am not now sorry for it. 

Let no one think to do good in Christ's cause 



IflNfcRANCY ON FOOT, CONTINUED. 153 

without sacrifice. Some one might say, " Why did 
you not have a horse ?" There are many reasons : 
— First, I had not money to buy one. Second, 
my income was not sufficient to support one. 
Third, love to my neighbor would not allow 
me to tax him for my convenience. Fourth, I 
was better off, every way ; had better health, 
better enjoyment, better friends. 

Within the bounds of the circuit was the 
popular resort, now called " Lake Hopatcong" 
then "Brooklyn Pond." In the Winter of 1844 
it was frozen over, and I had a sleigh-ride 
over its smooth surface. The wind blew from 
the north almost a gale, and we rode south, 
perhaps I might rather say flew, before the 
furious blast. Never again do I wish to move 
so swiftly through this world. The horse was 
lame for a number of days as the consequence 
of swift traveling over the unyielding ice. 
Some fish that during this winter were caught 
in the lake were made a present to me, fro- 
zen, and apparently in an inanimate state. They 
were curved and out of their natural shape, and 
rattled like chips on the floor. I put them in 



154 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



a bucket of water and in a few minutes they 
were all alive and flouncing. 

The lake is surrounded with beautiful roman- 
tic scenery in the summer months. 

My field of labor was large, and I often 
walked long distances through the forests. On 
Saturday afternoon I would walk to " Berk- 
shire Valley" preach in the evening in the 
school-house, and stay with brother Dickerson. 
On Sabbath morning preached at Hurdtown, 
and after dinner walked to Sparta and preached 
at night. 

There was a man on the circuit who kept a 
distillery. He contributed to the support of the 
Gospel. One day I had a long talk with him, 
during which I expostulated with him on the 
nefarious business in which he was engaged. I 
told him of his responsibility and the destiny 
that awaited him, when he should be made to 
eat the fruit of his own doings. All seemed to 
no purpose. He did not drink himself, nor his 
family, but many of his neighbors were made 
drunkards. An old Methodist man, bald-headed, 
who looked like a seer, approached him one day 



ITINERANCY ON FOOT, CONTINUED. I55 



and said : " Sir, I have been praying for some 
time to have the privilege from God to come 
and set fire to your still. When I have a favorable 
answer, I will come and burn you out !" The 
rum-maker was very angry. It was only a few 
years afterwards, that one of his sons, employed 
in the abominable establishment, contracted an 
appetite for strong drink, and in a fit of deli- 
rium tremens, hung himself ! 

My preaching place was near the distillery. 
I always led class after preaching ; our people 
required it, for preachers, they thought, have an 
easy life, and ought to be willing to help the 
leaders. Sometimes I had to walk from Hurd- 
town to Longwood, to preach there on week- 
night. I wore thick leather boots over my 
pants, as a protection against rattlesnakes, 
which abounded in those parts. Though 
shocked by their presence I never received a 
bite from one, for which I was thankful. I saw 
foxes and heard them bark ; but they gave me 
no trouble. The year 1843 was what was called 
" locust year" and these insects filled the woods 
with a noise that would drown conversation. 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



During this year the springs were very low ; so 
mucli so, that Hopatcong Lake was lower than 
the oldest inhabitants had ever known it before. 
I walked along the shore down to the water's 
edge, and found rude specimens of broken 
crockery left by the Indians that once lived in 
the vicinity. Five pickerel were put in the 
waters of the lake at that period for the first 
time. What quantities have come therefrom ! 
The great fish in this world eat up the little 
ones, in more senses than one, as some know to 
their sorrow. 

Once, when preaching in brother Dickerson's 
house at Longwood, I was pointed in applying 
my discourse. These words were used : " Are 
there not some backslidden persons in this 
company ? Did not one of this assemblage 
once wield the sword of the Spirit in doing 
successful battle for God ? Have not some of 
you hung up your sword against the wall to 
rust in its scabbard ?" At this juncture, a tall 
man, venerable in appearance, cried out, "I am 
that man — O God, help me ! Restore unto 
me the joy of Thy salvation ; then will I teach 



ITINERANCY ON FOOT, CONTINUED. 157 



trangressors Thy ways, and sinners shall be 
converted unto Thee !" He was reclaimed, 
received license to exhort, and did efficient 
service in the Church. 

There was a debt on our church at Sparta, 
of eight hundred dollars ; and it was about 
being sold, at sheriff's sale. The trustees 
agreed to raise half, if I would raise the remain- 
der. They raised their part, and inquired how 
I succeeded. I told them I had not obtained a 
dollar. After praying in the woods over the 
matter, I went to dine with Andrew Rose, who 
was wealthy. After dinner, we went into the 
parlor to pray, and talk of the goodness of God. 
When we arose he was considerably melted 
down, and I thought it was a favorable time for 
something to be done. I told him that time 
was flying fast, that he had a good wife, re- 
ligion and wealth, and that his means should 
be used to save souls, and " lay up treasure in 
heaven." The tears trickled down his cheeks. 
I fell on my knees, saying " Let us pray." In 
my prayer the case of the Sparta Methodist 
Church was mentioned, " and that God was now 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



looking to see what brother Rose would do." 
After prayer I said, " Brother Rose, just give me a 
check on a Newton Bank, for four hundred 
dollars, to get the church out of this difficulty ! 
Do it quickly, before Satan has time to cross 
your path !" He gave it at once — the trustees 
were glad, so was I. A gracious revival followed 
and souls were converted. 

At Roseville, in a school-house, we held a 
protracted meeting for a few weeks, and an in- 
teresting revival was the result. Among the 
converts, which were mostly young people, was 
a man in middle age, by the name of Hart. He 
desired a visit from me, and I complied with 
his request. He was soundly converted, and 
wished advice how to conduct himself in all 
his domestic affairs. He was a farmer, and 
had an interesting family. I counseled him 
according to Gospel teaching. He manifested 
much love for me, and said, "Brother Scarlett, 
would you like to have trout for supper?" I 
replied in the affirmative. He procured a 
baited hook and line, let it down into his deep 
well, and brought up a large trout, then another 



ITIMERANCY ON FOOT, CONTINUED. 159 



was taken in the same way. The water in 
the well was excellent, and brother Hart kept 
the trout in the well, to purify the water. 

In the spring of 1844, our Conference met at 
Trenton, N. J. ; and I was returned to Stanhope 
with a colleague Samuel D. Lougheed. Bishop 
Hedding was in the chair most of the time. 
During this session I saw for the first and last 
time Bishop Soule. He was a noble specimen of 
a man in appearance, and I heard an address 
from him that manifested his powerful mind. 
The duty was laid upon me, one afternoon 
during Conference, to preach. I selected as my 
text, "The fool hath said in his heart, there is 
no God." Psalm xiv. 1. 

With my colleague, who was an agreeable 
associate, I labored in harmony. In referring 
to 1844 we are always painfully reminded of 
the unhappy division, in the M. E. Church, 
and the organization of the el M. E. Church 
South!" The curse of slavery was the cause; 
and God, through blood, has wiped that out 
forever. The church at Stanhope was built 
during that year. 



i6o 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



I held meetings in a schoolhouse at Hope- 
well for two weeks, each afternoon and night, 
resulting in fourteen conversions. A class was 
organized, of which brother John Bonker was 
made leader. They said, that I was the first 
who preached in that vicinity. They burned 
charcoal, and I bore the black marks, while labor- 
ing among them ! But white robes were 
anticipated, as the reward. The Holy Spirit 
took powerful hold of the wife of the tavern- 
keeper. She was a true lady, and favored the 
revival. One stormy night, when the snow 
came down in a fast and driving manner, the 
meeting was postponed from one afternoon to 
the next. I was sent for by the landlord, to be 
entertained at the tavern. I went, and there 
were about thirty young people, male and 
female, and a good fiddler, named Strait, " To 
gie me music was his charge." He played 
some lively tunes, and the tavern-keeper had "a 
merry twinkle in his eye" as he smiled upon his 
audience, intimating that the Methodist preacher 
is done for now ! I told the fiddler, to "play 
away ! Play the ' Devil's dream V or anything 



ITINERANCY ON FOOT, CONTINUED. l6l 



else he liked." After awhile I seized the re- 
mains of an abused Bible, which lay on the 
mantelpiece, and said, " You have been pleased 
to entertain me in this public manner, Mr. 
Landlord. I am grateful to you, and this 
company, and feel that I would like to make 
the best possible return. Please listen to some 
of the wise sayings of this Old Book, a 
favorite with good people/' I selected a 
portion from Proverbs and said, " Now, listen 
to what God speaks." I read a chapter, and 
requested all to kneel, while I prayed for 
them — for the landlord especially. My con- 
gregations were increased by what had hap- 
pened, that winter, and God's work prog- 
ressed. 

Our Conference held its session, during the 
spring of 1845, m Mount Holly. It fell to my 
lot to preach one evening in the church. 
Among my hearers were two notable men, Rev. 
William Barns and Rev. "Billy Hibbard" as he 
was usually called. They are both gone to their 
reward. On Sabbath morning, April 27th, 1845, 
at Pemberton, in company with my classmates, 
11 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



I was ordained Elder by Bishop Janes. My ap- 
pointment that year was to Belvidere. Belvidere 
was a pleasant place of residence, the people 
were kind, and we had a good parsonage. 

The church stood then quite out of town, 
which doubtless interfered with the prosperity 
of the society. It is important to have churches 
properly located. Location has its effect on 
our thoughts and feelings. The new church, 
since erected, is eligibly situated. 

While in this charge my traveling was not so 
much as formerly. There were no week even- 
ing appointments to call me from home, yet I 
preached three times on each Sabbath, morning 
and evening in the town, and in the afternoon 
across the Delaware, in Pennsylvania, in a 
schoolhouse. I enjoyed it; but three times a day 
is too much for any one to preach the year 
round. 

In 1846 the New Jersey Conference was held 
in Newark, N. J. } in the New Church, Clinton 
street. Five years had fled since I had separated 
from friends to enter the itinerancy, and it was 



ITINERACY ON FOOT, CONTINUED. 163 



pleasant to meet them again. Many of my old 
acquaintances had been converted, and religion 
never abates true friendship. 

I heard the late Rev. Dr. Durbin preach but 
once in my life, and I think it was during this 
Conference. When he commenced, it reminded 
me of a quiet lake or sea, calm as a May morn- 
ing, with not a ripple on its smooth, sky-reflect- 
ing- waters. Toward the close of his sermon, 
his eyes assumed a strange brilliancy, and his 
mind was like the ocean lashed into commotion 
by the tempest. Waves of mighty thought rolled 
majestically ! He swayed the large congregation 
irresistibly. Dr. Durbin was one of the most 
w T onderful preachers of his day. 

While on the subject of preaching, let me 
observe that the preacher needs the Holy Ghost 
in him to help him to preach, not to clear him 
from the duty of studying his sermons in ad- 
vance, but to vividly impress him with the 
spiritual meaning of God's Word, and to con- 
trol his emotional nature. The Spirit is needed 
also, to properly read the Scriptures and hymns 
from the pulpit. In revival t work I have had 



164 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



success in preaching — first, the eternal punish- 
ment of the finally impenitent ; second, the 
necessity of regeneration ; third, the require- 
ment of entire sanctification. God has graci- 
ously owned the Word. True, there is persecu- 
tion from the world, and formal . professors, 
awaiting all " who live godly in Christ Jesus." 
The devil and his friends will never cease hating 
holiness. Seeking to please men, especially 
polite sinners, in pulpit ministrations, has done 
great damage to the cause of Christ. The idea 
that the advanced state of the arts and sciences, 
and modern refinements, are to change, or 
set aside the plain doctrines taught by Christ 
and His apostles, is preposterous. 

During my ministry at Belvidere we held no 
long protracted meetings, yet there were conver- 
sions each year. Among the converts were my 
two daughters and the son of one of the princi- 
pal members of the Church, Samuel T. Dickin- 
son, whom I have always considered one of my 
best friends and a devoted Christian. His house 
had long been noted as the preacher's hospitable 
home. When his son was converted, how his 



ITINERANCY ON FOOT, CONTINUED. 165 



smiles and tears were inter mingled, expressing 
his heart's emotions ! He prayed ardently that 
God would grant that the time might come when 
he should hear the Gospel from his son's lips 
which request was gratified. Rev. George F. 
Dickinson of the Newark Conference is the con- 
verted boy, who has so rejoiced the hearts of 
his praying parents. In this case the son and 
the parents are both honored. Let praying 
parents be encouraged. 

In the conversion of my eldest daughter, 
Mary Elizabeth, there was something worthy of 
notice. She was of an amiable disposition, and 
inclined to be good from a child. Some might 
have thought she was a Christian, and did not 
need a change of heart. She did, however, and 
lustily shouted the praise of God when con- 
verted. She had never looked so well in my 
eyes as when she was kneeling at that oaken 
bench, on the uncarpeted floor of the old school- 
house, crying and shouting when realizing the 
great salvation. Some years afterward, she 
wrote and sent the following to the Christian 
Advocate, which was inserted : 



i66 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



CONVERSION OF A PREACHER'S DAUGHTER. 

" It is almost four years since the Lord first 
spoke peace to my soul and bade me sin no 
more. With a young companion I had gone to 
spend the afternoon with two of our young ac- 
quaintances ; one of them a Methodist, the 
other, like ourselves, unacquainted with the 
pardoning love of Jesus. We spent the after- 
noon pleasantly together. At a schoolhouse 
about two miles off, a protracted meeting was 
being held. Father, on his way to preach that 
evening, called in and took tea with us. I asked 
him if I might go to meeting with the girls. 
He said I might, if I would try to have my soul 
converted. While on our way, one of the girls 
remarked that the mourners were to meet at 
half-past six o'clock ; and, as we were quite 
early, she was afraid we would be taken for 
mourners. She said this laughing. Then, turn- 
ing to her sister, said, ' Effy, why don't you talk 
to us about religion ? You know what Brother 
S. said.' (At the table father had told her to 
take up her cross, and urge upon the girls the 
importance of conversion*) 



ITINERANCY ON FOOT, CONTINUED. 167 



" How merciful the Lord was to us while we 
were going the downward road ! O, how 
often I think of it ! The sermon preached 
that evening was from Heb. vi. 17, 18. I 
listened to it with some attention. I felt that 
I was a sinner. My sins were brought in black 
array before me. Without forgiveness I knew 
I must be lost. Prayers of pious parents and 
friends could not save me. They could avail 
nothing so long as I refused to come to Christ, 
my only refuge. I was ready to say, with the 
poet : 

* Lord, I despair myself to heal, 
I see my sin, but cannot feel.' 

" I realized my need of a Saviour, and with- 
out the love of God shed abroad in my heart I 
must be miserable in time and in eternity. Dur- 
ing the sermon my stubborn heart began to 
melt, but as yet I did not feel willing to make 
the sacrifice and go forward publicly to the 
mourner's bench. The invitation being given, 
father came and talked to the one sitting beside 
me, who was weeping bitterly. He asked her to 
go forward for prayers. After awhile he turned 



J 68 THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



to me, requesting me to go with her. At first I 
felt angry with her for being so weak-minded, 
as I thought. It appeared very humbling to go 
and kneel before the whole congregation, and 
more especially before my unconverted com- 
panions. I wished I had stayed at home. I felt 
miserable. How stubborn, how rebellious is 
the sinner's heart until changed by the grace of 
God! 

" I went forward, however, that night, not- 
withstanding the suggestions of the adversary 
of my soul. I had not long been seeking in this 
humble way, before the Lord spoke peace to my 
soul. But it was not until I could say in my 
heart : 

' I the chief of sinners am j 
But Jesus died for me !' 

"I then felt willing to give up all my young 
companions, for I no more thought of them as 
I had done before. I was resigned to conse- 
quences should I meet opposition. All my 
thoughts were centered on Christ, and when I 
came to the point of giving up, of forgiving all 



ITINERANCY ON FOOT, CONTINUED. 169 



injuries, doing anything and everything for 
Jesus' sake, then I received the witness that 1 
was a child of God. When I arose from where 
I had been kneeling, and looked upon all around 
me, how different did everything appear ! But 
a short time before, all bore an aspect as dismal 
and dark as my own heart. Now all things 
seemed to rejoice in a risen Saviour. I knew 
that Jesus had pardoned my sins, and that I was 
at peace with God the Father. While on my 
way home, I was filled unutterably full of glory 
and of God." 

My youngest daughter, Sarah, was converted 
through hearing her sister's testimony at class- 
meeting. 

A case occurred that will go to illustrate how 
much need there is of young converts receiving 
just such instruction as is likely to be given in 
the class-room. A man, largely engaged in the 
manufacture of intoxicating drinks, living a 
short distance from Belvidere, across the Dela- 
ware, in the State of Pennsylvania, was con- 
verted at a camp-meeting that I attended. He 



170 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



abandoned the nefarious business, and had a 
church built near his residence, sharing largely 
in paying for it. 

Brother T. y we will call him, was made 
class-leader, and was very useful. God wonder- 
fully blessed him in his work. A revival was in 
progress, which was largely attributable to his 
instrumentality. Things were going on well, as 
I heard from time to time. I had preached in 
the church, both at the dedication and in revival 
meetings, and was entertained at Brother T's 
house. That winter, one afternoon, he came to 
see me, as he said, on important business. 
Nothing else would do, but I must return home 
w T ith him for the night. He looked very solemn, 
never once smiling. We crossed the Delaware 
without a word of explanation why he urged 
me to accompany him so importunately. At 
length he broke the silence, thus: " Brother 
Scarlett, do Christians profanely swear?" "O, 
no I'M replied. He wept, exclaiming, "I have 
been too fast in joining the Church — O, I have 
disgraced it." " How so ?" I inquired. " Let me 
know how this came to pass." With streaming 



ITINERANCY ON FOOT, CONTINUED. 171 



eyes he held up a finger, bound up with a white 
patch, spotted with blood, and said, " I was driv- 
ing the pigs yesterday to the barn, when one bit 
my finger; and before I had time to think I 
dropped aprofane word. I cannot be a Christian, 
sir !" %i What did you do immediately after utter- 
ing that wicked word ?" "I ran home, went up 
into my room, and fell on my knees before God, 
asking forgiveness," said he. "What was your 
habit before your conversion ?" I asked. " How 
were you affected then, when profane words fell 
from your lips ?" " I thought nothing of it," he 
replied. "Now, you see, my brother, that you 
have a change of heart. It is a praying heart, 
and is opposed to drifting down the current of 
sinful profanity. You are a Christian, and your 
new-born nature has been 6 overtaken in a fault' 
and may never be again — now you are restored." 
That night, after supper, we went to class to- 
gether — he obtained complete victory, and 
we had a joyous time in the Lord. The last I 
heard of Brother G. T., he was happy in re- 
ligion, and in good standing in the Church. 

The fallen nature of man and the grace of 



172 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



God are of opposite moral tendencies. When 
man is left entirely to himself his character is 
"only evil, continually." When he is partially 
sanctified, good and evil at times alternately 
prevail. When the believer is entirely sanctified 
the good has undisputed sway. This doctrine is 
never brought into conflict with any fact, re- 
vealed or experienced. 

Our Conference convened in 1847, in Salem, 
N. J. In the rear of the church was a "grave- 
yard," and I was shown the resting-place of the 
noted Benjamin Abbott, a name precious in the 
annals of New Jersey Methodism. What power 
he had with God in prayer ! How successful he 
was in preaching the gospel ! It was not talent, 
nor learning, that made him famous in his high 
calling. Are we to admire such instruments, so 
signally owned of God, as we do the cataract of 
Niagara ? Is that what God raises them up for ? 
By no means. Our interest should be to follow 
them as they followed Christ ; to imitate their ex- 
ample, in faith, humility, love, and holy zeal. 

During the Conference I heard Rev. Dr. 
Noah Levings preach a sermon of unusual unc- 



ITINERANCY ON FOOT, CONTINUED. I / J 

tion. It was, indeed, edifying, and soul refresh- 
ing. He realized, and so did his hearers, that 
God had called and qualified him for his work, 
and he was " not disobedient to the heavenly 
vision." 

In taking leave of the dear friends at Belvi- 
dere, much tenderness of feeling was mani- 
fested. We hope to meet them in a world where 
parting is not provided for in the arrangement. 

My next appointment was to Madison circuit, 
with Rev. J, W. Barrett as my colleague. The 
charge embraced four churches, as Sabbath ap- 
pointments, beside week-night preaching places. 
The first winter there was a powerful revival in 
Madison. Seventy or more were converted in 
three weeks — my son among the number. Rev. 
Henry Sewell and Rev. John E. Hancock were 
also among the subjects. Both are now mem- 
bers of Annual Conferences. The revival 
was a genuine work, attended with lasting 
effects. Our helpers were our own local preach- 
ers, exhorters, and praying men and women. 
From my long experience I am in favor of our 
own people working in revivals,. The converts 



174 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



will reap greater benefit than when strangers are 
employed, who, sometimes, estrange the hearts 
of the converts from the pastor and working 
members, by invidious comparisons. 

There were some interesting conversions in 
other parts of the circuit. In Whippany, 
Chatham, and Green Village, the Lord was with 
us in revival-power, and souls were born into 
the kingdom. 



CHAPTER VIII. 



ABUNDANT LABORS, TRIALS, AND TRIUMPHS. 

"That he which persecuted us in times past, now 
preacheth the faith which once he destroyed." — Gal. i. 23. 

The Conference in 1849 was held in Burling- . 
ton, N. J. The pastorate of the Church at 
Mariners' Harbor, S. I., was committed to me. 
The cholera raged fearfully this year in New 
York and contiguous places, and many on 
Staten Island fell victims. 

On June 3d, being prostrated by fever, my 
physician prescribed brandy, which I refused to 
take. He said death would likely result if it 
were not used. My reply was, " Then let me die 
sober!" My nervous system was so affected 
that a week was passed without sleep. Opiates 
were administered, which had a strange effect. 

This illness gave me a vacation of three weeks, 
the only one I ever enjoyed, or endured ! The 

[175] 



176 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



people were kind, but in consequence of im- 
paired health, my pastorate at Mariner's Harbor 
terminated at the end of the year. Some con- 
versions occurred, however, during my brief 
stay, which are gratefully remembered. The 
Church has since become strong and prosper- 
ous, and a costlv edifice has been erected on an 
eligible site. 

During a revival meeting held by me, in this 
place, there were some remarkable conversions. 
A captain who was much prejudiced against 
Methodists, had gone to Virginia for oysters. 
His wife, attending the service, presented herself 
for prayers. Persons who knew her husband 
said, "Domifdc % look out, the captain will settle 
with you if his wife is converted !" She wa.v 
happily converted, and some trouble was ex- 
pected. One Sabbath morning he was seated 
in the pew by the side of his wife. He gazed 
upon me intently while preaching, and the tears 
coursed down the cheeks of his wife. The ser- 
mon being ended, he approached the pulpit, 
giving me somewhat of a tremor. Asking 
liberty to speak, he said, " Last night, on re- 



ABUNDANT LABORS. 



177 



turning home, I found my wife had attended the 
protracted meeting, and had been converted. 
I tell you it nearly overcame me, and I said to 
her, ' Now you can go your way and I will go 
mine. I will not live with a Methodist wife. 
Give me my things and I will go back to my 
boat V I started, all the while, however, feeling 
worse and worse. I became alarmed lest death 
might overtake me before morning, and re- 
turned home, knocking at the door, and begging 
my wife to let me in. On entering, I cried out, 
' 0, pray for me!' She said, 'I have been 
praying ever since you left.' It was then mid- 
night, but there was no rest for me. I aroused 
a Methodist neighbor, who labored with me 
until I was converted. Let me shake hands with 
the preacher, for I am happy in religion !" So 
his opposition was conquered, and he loved his 
wife and family more than ever. The ire and 
threatenings of wicked men should never in- 
timidate God's people. 

One afternoon, on announcing the text, 
" Simon, Simon, Satan hath desired to have you, 
that he may sift you as wheat," an unconverted 
12 



178 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



man in the congregation gave a quick, impul- 
sive start, attracting general attention. He was 
very uneasy until the sermon closed. The fact 
of his name being " Simon " did not enter my 
mind. Whether the strange coincidence, mak- 
ing him the observed of all observers, had a 
saving effect, we did not learn. 

It might have been supposed that the ravages 
of the cholera at this time would have had a re- 
straining influence upon the wicked — but it was 
the reverse. When neighbors were suddenly 
stricken by death, they did not regard it seri- 
ously. The steamboats on the bay, continually 
passing our door, were crowded with thought- 
less, hilarious people, giving themselves to frolic 
and dancing. It was reliably stated that, on 
one occasion, a party, after dancing, personified 
cholera patients in their dying agonies, for the amuse- 
ment of the giggling throng/ This prevalent in- 
difference gave me much solicitude for the souls 
of the people, and led me to fidelity in warning 
and entreating them to be reconciled to God. 
One man remarked that if he were in my place 
he would not trouble himself about other folks, 



ABUNDANT LABORS. 



179 



so long as he was safe himself. How selfish is 
the unrenewed heart ! 

Calls were received to assist in revival serv- 
ices in New York, Newark, and other places 
during the winter — souls were saved, and this 
made my heart rejoice. One evening I remarked 
that seekers would be converted, if they re- 
solved to do right, notwithstanding salvation 
was by faith. Next day, a person who had been 
seeking the Lord with tears, called upon me, 
and said : u About five years ago 1 wronged an 
individual out of five dollars — does that hinder 
my salvation?" I replied, "Yes; send the 
principal with interest to the person, and you 
will soon find Christ." He followed the in- 
struction, was speedily converted, and preached 
the Gospel a number of years before he died. 

Every test to which Bible religion is sub- 
jected, rightly understood, proves it to be of 
God, as certainly as nature declares Him to be 
the Creator. " Be not deceived, God is not 
mocked ; whatsoever a man soweth, that shall 
he also reap." It is useless to try to be a Chris- 
tian if a man will not "do justly." Determin- 



i8o 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



ing to do right, as far as known, a man may 
confidently call on God, through Christ, and 
be saved. Nothing on earth more certainly 
demonstrates its divine origin than true religion. 
Jesus manifests himself to all true believers, sat- 
isfactorily. He reverses the tendencies of their 
moral natures so that, instead of finding joy in 
sinful pleasures, their joy is in the Lord. Sup- 
pose a river which had been running due north, 
should be suddenly changed to a southward 
course. Reason would say that such an effect 
must have an adequate cause. Now, man can 
no more change his moral character than a river 
can change its course. But true Christians 
have renewed hearts and lives, and it is by the 
operation of the Spirit of God. 

During this year I kept a diary. A few ex- 
tracts will show how busy is the life of a Gos- 
pel itinerant. 

The last night of the year 1849 was spent at 
a watch-meeting in Greene Street Church, New 
York, Rev. D. Smith, pastor, preaching on the 
preparations necessary for the coming year. 

Tuesday, January 1. Cold day. Devoted it 



ABUNDANT LABORS. 



to pastoral visiting. Related my experience in 
the evening. 

Wednesday, 2. Left New York for Newark ; 
preached this evening for Rev. I. N, Felch, in 
Franklin Street Church. 

Thursday, 3. Visited to-day Sister Murphy, 
dying with consumption, and another suffering 
with cancer ; prayed with them. 

Friday, 4. In company with Brother Felch, 
made pastoral visits. Preached in the evening; 
favorable tokens in the prayer meeting. 

Saturday, 5. Returned home; found all well. 
O, to be more thankful and faithful ! 

Sabbath, 6. A bright, pleasant day. Preached 
in my own pulpit thrice ; in the afternoon a 
large and serious congregation. 

Tuesday, 8. Visited Joseph Lake, an invalid; 
conversed and prayed with him. He wept and 
said, " My sufferings are great, but God is right 
in permitting them. ,, 

Sabbath, 13. Preached morning and after- 
noon. Had said in one sermon that " backsliders 
are double-dyed," which excited some wonder- 
ment. 

Tuesday, 15. Visited Brother La"ke, Mrs. 
Drake, Mrs. Decker, and others, conversing on 
religion. Preached this evening severely to an 
attentive congregation. Devising means to 
liquidate church debt. 

Wednesday, 16. Our whole family visited 
at Brother Drake's. Profitable conversation. 

Talked w T ith Mrs. C and Mrs. V on vain 

amusements. 



l82 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



Sabbath, 20. Preached thrice to large congre- 
gations ; married a couple in the evening. 

Wednesday, 23. Rev. G. Hughes preached to- 
night to a very attentive congregation. 

Thursday, 24. Walked with Brother Hughes 
to see Rev. L. R. Dunn. Dined with Brother 
Decker. Brother Dunn provided a conveyance 
in the evening, and Brother H. preached to at- 
tentive hearers. 

Friday \ 25. Heard of the death of Rev. R. 
Lanning. Preached at night to a serious con- 
gregation. 

Sabbath, February 3. Preached in the after- 
noon on Peter's sermon, and at night on Paul's. 
The devil and his friends were uneasy. They 
will suffer loss. 

Tuesday, 5. A great disaster in New York; 
steam boiler explosion; much excitement. 

Wednesday, 6. Preached at the funeral of R. 
Egbert, killed at the accident in New York yes- 
terday. Friends bowed down with grief. Gave 
my experience in the evening. 

Sabbath, 10. Quarterly meeting. Elder Winner 
preached in the afternoon and administered the 
sacrament. 

Saturday, March 2. Went with my son and 
his wife to New York ; visited a sister called 
"Aunt Caty Sister Baker, an itinerant's widow, 
was there; had a gracious time in social prayer. 

Wednesday, 6. Visited Rev. J. B. Wake ley in 
Jersey City. Met Rev. Dr. J. McClintock there, 
and his father, an old-fashioned Methodist. Tem- 
perance meeting, at which I was to speak, post- 



ABUNDANT LABORS. 



183 



poned on account of rain; sorry to be hindered, 
even by water. 

Thursday, 7. Heard of the arrival of a cousin, 
Ann Bentley, and husband, from Mexico. Glad 
greeting ! Preached this evening for Brother 
Wakeley; felt divine influence. 

Sabbath, 10. Early this morning our next- 
door neighbor fired off a gun ; Sabbath dese- 
cration shows depravity. Gave a Scripture 
exposition to Sabbath-school this morning ; 
preached afternoon and night. 

Wednesday, April 3. Attended the dedication 
of Brother Dunn's church at Springville ; 
heard sermons by Bishop Janes, and Brothers 
Ellison and D. W. Bartine. 

Friday, 12. Received word that the engineer 
of the steamboat had been instantly killed. 

Sabbath, 14. Preached on Christian Perfec- 
tion to-night, for the last time this Conference 
year, at Mariners' Harbor. 

Tuesday, 16. Went to Conference at Camden. 
Entertained at Brother Sharp's. We had three 
Vans there — N. Vanhorne, N. Vansant, C. S. 
Vancleve. 

Wednesday, 17. Conference opened by Bishop 
Hedding ; Bishops Waugh and Janes present. 
I think the promising minister, Brother Jno. 
Parker, was severely dealt with. Preaching this 
evening by Father Bcehm. 

Thursday, 18. Preached to night in new 
church. South Camden ; many preachers 
present. Had liberty. 

About ten years after that sermon, I 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



received a letter from a preacher in the South, 
stating that he heard it, and attributed his 
conversion to it. 

Friday, 19. An extraordinary sermon to- 
night by D. F. Reed. 

Sabbath, 21. In Philadelphia. Preached in 
Salem Church in the morning. Took tea with 
Brother G. G. Cookman's widow. Preached at 
night for Brother Alfred Cookman in Kensing- 
ton. Crowded church. 

Monday, 22. Heard Drs. Holdich, Mc- 
Clintock and Durbin make excellent mission- 
ary addresses. 

Tuesday, 23. Visited " Fairmount " and " Gi- 
rard " College. Made temperance address this 
evening in Temperance Hall. 

Thursday, 25. Conference adjourned. My 
appointment : Allentown Circuit, J. B. Hill, 
colleague. The circuit has four churches, and 
one school-house appointment. 

Tuesday, 30. My birthday. Started for 
Hightstown, place of future residence. Had a 
pleasant trip through " The Narrows." 

Tuesday, May 2. My colleague, J. B. Hill, 
arrived. Many called to make our acquaintance. 

Sabbath, 5. Preached this morning for 
first time in Hightstown, and led class. Rainy 
day. 

Tuesday, 7. Visited a poor sick man, who 
desired me to read the Bible and pray with him. 
He gave signs of penitence. 

Wednesday, 8. Buried the man whom I visit- 
ed yesterday. Shall I see him again ? How 
frail is man ! 



ABUNDANT LAfcOkS. 



Sabbath, 19. Preached in Allentovvn this 
morning, and Sharon in the afternoon. After 
sermon, a man in liquor cried after me along 
the road, "I will never drink any more, but will 
serve God !" Preached in Allentown at night. 

Monday, 20. Made calls with Brother Hill, 
in Allentown. Brother H. gives much promise; 
is without guile. 

Tuesday, 21. Rode home with Brother W. 
Foster, an old-fashioned Methodist — the best 
kind, I think. Enjoyed his conversation. 

Wednesday, 22. In company with Brothers 
Morrison and Hankinson visited the widow 
of Gen. Cook. Had a profitable season. 

Friday, 24. Fast-day. I find it beneficial to 
soul and body. Have peace with God, but not 
enough of His life and power. 

Saturday, 25. Not thankful enough. O, for 
more of the mind that was in Jesus ! O, God, 
let thy spirit be in me more manifestly ! 

Sabbath, 26. Walked through the rain to 
Allentown and preached. Sharp lightning and 
loud thunder during the service. It was inspir- 
ing. Rode with Brother Bowman, a local 
preacher, to Clarksburg, and preached at night. 

Monday, 27. Tarried till one o'clock with 
Brother Bowman. Walked home, stopping at 
Brother Sill's for supper. Enjoyed my solitary 
walk home. The playful rabbits, nimble 
squirrels, and singing birds, delighted me. 

Sabbath, Jujie 2. Preached twice in Hights- 
town. Good feeling. Also at Centreville in the 
afternoon. People heard attentively — good 
will follow. 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



Saturday, 8. Much thunder last night. Two 
weeks ago, to-day, Rev. J. N. Maffitt, at Mobile, 
Ala., and Jacob Gruber, at Lewistown, Pa., died; 
both notable men. 

Monday, n. With Brother Hill visited Mrs. 
Johnston, widow of a leading member, and 
mother-in-law of Rev. S. W. Hilliard. Brother 
Hi I Hard was there, and we were hospitably 
entertained. 

Saturday, 15. Happy among this people, 
especially profitable to visit Rev. R. E. Morrison, 
a supernumerary, and family. 

Sabbath, 16. Started to walk to Allentown, 
was taken up in a carriage. Preached and went 
home with Brother J. West, remaining till 
Monday. 

Saturday, July 6. Quarterly meeting at Cen- 
treviile. Rev. J. K. Shaw, P. E., preached. 

Sabbath, 21. Held love-feast and preached in 
Allentown. A good, simple-hearted, colored 
brother said : " My brethren, I am determined 
to make sure work for heaven — that is, if I live 
and keep my health and strength." If not — what 
then? 

Wednesday, September 18. Have commenced 
to write a book, viz v : " The Converted Infidel." I 
pray for divine aid, without which all is vain. 

Saturday, 21. A delightful morning ! Spir- 
itual strength renewed. Thinking of to-mor- 
row's labors — to preach three times. It is a 
weariness to soul and body. Many constitu- 
tions break down under it. Did the great Geo. 
Whitefield die prematurely ? 



ABUNDANT LABORS. 



187 



My salary on this circuit was larger than 
heretofore, being three hundred and fifty dollars. 
The subject of support was never mentioned in 
the pulpit. Rev. J. K. Shaw, Presiding Elder, 
was an excellent man, and called " a great beg- 
gar." Just before the last quarterly meeting, we 
informed the stewards of what we had received, 
preparatory to a settlement of accounts. A pres- 
ent of a suit of clothes had been made to Brother 
Hill, and to myself eleven dollars and other 
presents, in addition to our regular allowance. 
Brother Shaw preached a powerful sermon on 
Sabbath morning at the Quarterly Meeting, and 
then began to beg for the preachers, but no re- 
sponse. Turning to me, he asked: " Brother 
Scarlett, how much are you behind ?" " They 
have overpaid us already," was my reply. How 
disappointed he was ! 

In 185 1, Conference met in Jersey City. At 
this time my acquaintance with Rev. Dr. Matti- 
son commenced, whom I ever afterward held in 
high esteem. He was able, laborious, eloquent, 
and unaffected. His views of entire sanctifica- 
tion did not accord with mine, but he certainly 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



evinced the spirit of his Master, and was zealous 
in his cause. On the Conference Sabbath, 
Brother M. preached, to my pleasure and profit. 
Why I could not assent to his teachings on holi- 
ness was, that they antagonized my experience. 
No argument outside of my experience could 
change my views. He had no experience con- 
tradicting mine, nor did mine contradict his — 
but his theory did not harmonize with my ex- 
perience, nor with that of Christians generally. 
We will agree in heaven. 

During Conference an address of remarkable 
zeal and energy was delivered by a minister 
stationed in New York. Being considerably 
emaciated, my pity was excited, thinking he 
would soon wear himself out. But Rev. R. S. 
Foster, now Bishop Foster, is far from being 
worn out yet. 

" Coming events cast their shadows before." 

It was ordered that I should return to Allen- 
town circuit for another year. God's special 
favor was shown in giving me such a co-laborer 
as Brother E. W. Adams, to follow Brother Hill, 



ABUNDANT LABORS. 



189 



who was appointed to Cranbury, and in six 
months thereafter was sent as a missionary to 
California to brave the hardships incident to 
pioneei>life among Indians and others. Brother 
Hill is now our book agent in San Francisco. 

God's work was revived on the charge this 
year at all points, especially in Hightstown, 
where divine power was wonderfully manifested. 
Universalism had a strong hold among the peo- 
ple there. The prominent men had means, 
social position, and were moral, in the main. 
The Gospel batteries were brought to bear 
against their errors, faithfully. My colleague 
was a good singer, and God was with us of a 
truth. Numbers were prostrated under Divine 
power, at times, which troubled some people. 
We said, however, let God have His own way 
with us — He knows what to do and how to Jo it. 
More than once have I lost my own strength 
when in an agony of prayer. The philosophy 
of this has not specially engaged my thoughts, 
being indisposed to profitless speculations. The 
Universalists having a church in the town were 
often led to converse with me. They referred 



190 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



to the ability of their preacher in high terms, 
which I did not dispute. 

One Friday night, a penitent Universalist 
went from our church along the street, crying, 
"O Lord, have mercy on my soul /" They came to tell 
me that we Methodists were making our church a 
nuisance. My reply was, that the noisy one 
was a Universalist, and that when he was con- 
verted he would no longer cry in the streets, 
but behave as Methodists did usually. He be- 
came a happy Christian. 

One morning, five Universalists called to ex- 
postulate with me respecting what they called 
" my bigotry" in not treating them as Christians. 
In reply I proposed that we should ask each 
other certain questions, to which they assented. 
"Ask me," I said, first — " If I am born again?" 
which they did, receiving my answer, 11 Yes** 
The question was then propounded to each of 
them, and they answered, " No f" Second — 
" Do you believe I am born again ?" I asked, and 
they answ T ered, " No !" 

" Now, gentlemen," I said, " you see where 
the bigotry is. I am only one, and without re- 



ABUNDANT LABORS. 



serve accept your testimony — and you, five in 
number, unanimously reject mine." They re- 
tired, apparently discomfited. Some of this 
people were converted and united with our 
Church. 

Wiiatever doctrine we hold, as an article of 
faith, which does not lead men to Christ, is 
false. Has Universalism, Unitarianism, or 
Swedenborgianism, in entire separation from 
evangelistical orthodoxy, ever brought sinners to 
Christ, to know His converting energy? Has 
the power of the Holy Ghost ever been acknow- 
ledged among them ? Have they ever experi- 
enced a revival, in essential features correspond- 
ing with Pentecost ? A Church unvisited by 
the revival spirit, with no radical conversions, 
no spiritual rejoicing, and no pantings for 
pentecostal effusions, is indeed destitute of New 
Testament life and power. 



CHAPTER IX. 



WORKING FOR THE MASTER. CHEERING RESULT'S. 

" For we are laborers together with God." — I. Cor. ii. 9. 

Conference met in 1852 in Trenton, N. J., 
Bishop Janes presiding. He appeared weary 
from overwork. Bishop Hedding having died 
during the session, Bishop Janes preached a 
funeral sermon. Rev. Dr. Charles Pitman was 
with us for the last time. How changed, physi- 
cally, from what he was twenty years before, 
when his soul-arresting appeals won me to 
Christ ! But his work was done, and he soon 
entered upon his reward. 

Red Bank, N. J., was the charge allotted to 
me this year. It was a small town beautifully 
situated on the Shrewsbury river. " Rumsum" 
was attached as an afternoon appointment. I 
had no colleague ; hence, preaching three times 
[192I 



WORKING FOR THE MASTER. 



*93 



on the Sabbath was still my lot. Our eldest 
daughter having married, our family was re- 
duced to three. Good friends gathered around, 
helping me in my labors, whose memory is 
precious — among them Brothers Sanford, Spin- 
ning, and Borden, who have gone to rest with 
Jesus. There were three local preachers : 
Brothers Child, Bundock, and Earle. Their 
upturned faces encouraged me while preaching. 
My predecessor, Rev. A. E. Ballard, made us a 
number of friendly visits, and we learned to es- 
teem him highly. Once, when we were seated 
under the trees, on the banks of the Shrews- 
bury, engaged in conversation on Christian ex- 
perience, he asked, " Do you believe in the 
doctrine of entire sanctification ?" "Certainly," 
I replied. " Did you ever experience that bless- 
ing?" he inquired. With humility and joy, I 
answered, "I have." He said he had been 
somewhat perplexed in regard to this matter — 
but with emphasis remarked, " I believe you y and 
the doctrine too, and by the help of God intend 
to profit by this conversation." 

Is it not a wonder that there are so few in 
13 



i 9 4 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



the Church who have the experience of perfect 
love? Why should any Christian be satisfied 
with less ? Is not Christ the Author and the 
Finisher of saving faith? The Author, by reveal- 
ing to us all the truth to be believed. The 
Finisher, by working in us, " to will and to do 
of God's good pleasure." Confessing heart- 
purity is simply confessing Christ. Christ saves 
His people from their sins. When we witness 
to this grace of full salvation, we simply testify 
to His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. 
If a benevolent person, who was never known to 
deviate from truth, should give you a thousand 
dollars, in accordance with a promise made, 
would you be a faithful witness in saying that 
he gave but one dollar? Certainly not. And 
shall we deal with our Saviour less justly than 
with our fellow-man ? God forbid ! 

The congregations at Red Bank and Rum- 
sum heard the whole truth preached, as God 
gave ability, and the divine sanction was given. 

A man of respectability and morality, whose 
wife and daughter were members of our Church, 
said to rae > "If you preach about hell, I shall 



WORKING FOR THE MASTER. 195 



cease coming to hear you." Brother Spinning, 
who was near, replied, " Do you expect us to 
have a Methodist preacher here who will not 
preach Methodist doctrines?" No sinner, to 
my knowledge, ever repented of his sins while 
denying the plain teaching of the Bible on the 
subject of eternal punishment. 

There was an able lawyer living near Red 
Bank, eccentric, shrewd, and always at home in 
court. Being asked on a certain occasion why 
he came to hear me preach, when there were 
other ministers in the place of greater ability, 
replied, that he was so great a sinner that, when 
he heard preaching, he desired to feel as though 
the devil was after him with a red-hot pitchfork! 
Observing him in the congregation one Sabbath 
evening, and knowing his habit of using pro- 
fane language, I took occasion to speak against 
the evil plainly, thus: " Swearing is ungram- 
matical, and is against wisdom, reason, common 
sense and good manners. It is unbecoming in 
all places and at all times." On returning home 
after meeting, my lawyer friend walked along- 
side of me and taking out his pocketbook, handed 



196 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



me a two-dollar bill, saying, "Dominie, I guess I 
owe you that much for your appropriate sermo7i ! " 

Some excellent members of the "Society of 
Friends " were brought to my acquaintance in 
Red Bank. Their unfaltering regard for truth 
and honesty, and their carefulness in word and 
conduct, were characteristics that challenged 
my admiration. Whatever promises they made 
were fulfilled. They manifested their friendli- 
ness by contributing to my support. Once, 
being invited to officiate at the funeral of a 
member of their society, by request, these words 
were used as the basis of remarks : " In him 
was life, and the life was the light of men." — 
John i. 4. They expressed satisfaction with 
the manner of conducting the service. The 
silence prevailing during the act of burial 
rendered the scene solemn and impressive. 

A preacher belonging to "The Friends" 
preached in our church on a certain Sabbath. 
Standing in the altar, he discoursed toacrowded 
congregation. The power of God attended his 
ministrations, and the people were edified. 

The Temperance cause was promoted during 



WORKING FOR THE MASTER. 



I 9 7 



this year, by the efficient labors of Rev. Enoch 
Knowles, a local preacher of superior ability. 
Brother Knowles was a man of sterling Chris- 
tian character, and the people had implicit con- 
fidence in him. Possessing accurate knowledge 
of human nature, a genial spirit, and ever bear- 
ing a bright Christian countenance, rendered 
him eminently successful in the Master's cause. 

During the winter of our first year in Red 
Bank, my wife had a severe illness. The neigh- 
bors were remarkably kind. One lady, however, 
with more good feeling than prudence, said, in 
the hearing of my sick wife, " I don't think she 
will get well ; she has the same symptoms as a 
person who died in our street the other day !" 
She was told privately that her sympathy was 
appreciated, but such discouraging words were 
harmful. It is a singular fact that some persons 
have the bad faculty of taking the gloomy side 
of every question on which they are pleased to 
converse. How much better to live in the sun- 
shine ! 

Some fruitage attended the year's labors h 
the Church, in the conversion of sinners, the 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



reclaiming of backsliders, and the up-building 
of the membership in true holiness. The con- 
version of a certain lady whom I visited was 
quite remarkable. She was in ill-health, and 
had been treated by skilful physicians without 
success. She was urged to give her heart to 
Christ, and at length was soundly converted. 
From that time she needed no other remedy for 
her bodily complaint. Her nerves recovered 
their wonted tone, appetite was restored, and 
her heart rejoiced in God greatly. She united 
with our Church, became a lively member, and 
her testimony was often given, to the edification 
of the saints. Is not sin-sickness sometimes mis- 
taken for bodily disease ? Or, does not soul-heal- 
ing often contribute largely to physical health ? 

The trustees purchased a parsonage during 
the year ; it had six rooms, a large lot and gar- 
den, excellent well of water, and cost one thou- 
sand dollars. My salary was two hundred and 
seventy dollars — we were comfortable and 
thankful. The Annual Conference met in 
Bridgeton, N. J., in 1853. At that time, the 
official members of a more wealthy charge de- 



WORKING FOR THE MASTER. 199 

sired to secure my appointment there, promising 
a larger salary. This offer I declined, convinced 
that the church at Red Bank favored my return, 
and the thought of having my appointment in- 
fluenced by money considerations was decidedly 
against my conscience. I was accordingly re- 
turned to Red Bank, and was favored with a 
prosperous year. 

During the summer, Rev. William Barns, of 
Philadelphia, preached for us at Rumsum, one 
Sabbath afternoon. His annual visits to friends 
at Long Branch, and able preaching, had given 
him wide fame. Arriving at the church at the 
appointed hour, I found it packed, and hun- 
dreds outside unable to gain entrance. Brother 
Barns was in the pulpit, and as soon as he saw 
me, called out, "Brother Scarlett, come up here 
on the walls of Zion, where you belong !" The 
singing was not to his notion, and he cried out, 
u Don't m-o-u-t-h those hymns of Charles Wes- 
ley — give them life and heart — that's what they 
were made for !" Notwithstanding his eccen- 
tricities, he was an eloquent and powerful 
preacher. During his sermon, he gave me a 



160 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



smart stroke on my back with his hand, the 
effect of which remained until next day, ex- 
claiming, "You are a God-made preacher, and 
no journeyman's work !" My impression was 
that he was a man of extraordinary ability, and 
a devout and holy Christian man. 

A case occurred about this time showing how 
some err on the subject of entire sanctification, 
for lack of proper instruction concerning the 
blessed doctrine. Having preached on the sub- 
ject on a certain Sabbath morning, a brother, 
not favored with clear apprehensions of Bible 
truth, called upon me on Monday. He had 
been a drunkard and pugilist, but through 
divine mercy had been recently converted. He 
came to converse with me on entire sanctifica- 
tion. "Brother Scarlett," said he, "is a man 
entirely sanctified when perfect love^ casts out 
all fear ?" I answered, " Yes." He exclaimed, 
" Glory to God, I am sanctified !" Then he 

went on to explain, saying, " When D called 

you a hard name, complaining that you had con- 
verted his wife, T took him by the throat, threat- 
ening to throw him off the dock — and was not 



WORKING FOR THE MASTER. 



20I 



afraid at all — perfec love had cast out all fear. 
Glory to God, I am sanctified !" 

" My brother, you are not sanctified/' I said. 
Perfect love is not consistent with such a re- 
sentful disposition and acts." He went away 
better instructed, and it is to be hoped to enjoy 
a more intelligent acquaintance with the meek 
and lowly Jesus. 

How much need there is, and ever has been, 
of a wholly sanctified membership in the Church 
of Christ. It has always been regarded as my 
solemn duty to preach the doctrine of Bible 
holiness, and to endeavor to exemplify it in 
daily life. This doctrine, it is certain, will never 
be popular with the world, nor with formal 
Christian professors. The most vital Bible 
truths are " disallowed of men/' Such cases as 
the one above named, are seized upon eagerly 
by the opposers of entire sanctification as a 
"second blessing," to nullify, as far as may be, 
the testimony of those who have tasted of the 
heavenly gift, the joy of full salvation. But, it 
should ever be remembered that counterfeits 



202 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



only prove the actual existence of genuine 
coin. 

There was, in my life-experience, an inter- 
mingling of joy and sorrow, leading me to know, 
in some measure, the fellowship of Christ's suf- 
ferings. 

In the fall of this year my son's wife died, 
and the stricken husband was disconsolate be- 
yond measure, notwithstanding his companion 
had a triumphant departure, in full hope of joys 
eternal. Their orphan child, bearing my name, 
we took to our home to rear. 

My daughter's husband was also rapidly de- 
clining in health, having symptoms of pulmo- 
nary consuption. Although a Christian, he was 
not without sorrow. " For our light affliction, 
which is but for a moment, worketh for us a 
far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 
While we look not at the things which are seen ; 
for the things which are seen are temporal ; but 
the things which are not seen are eternal." 
Were we permitted to arrange our own affairs, 
without divine interference, we would choose a 
life of ease and pleasure, without tribulation. 



WORKING FOR THE MASTER 203 



The results, in such an order of things, would 
not be so glorious. 

During my last winter in Red Bank, God 
poured out His Spirit upon the membership in 
an unusual manner. One Sabbath morning the 
discourse was addressed to Christians on the 
subject of a forgiving temper. After having pro- 
ceeded about twenty minutes, a number of 
brethren and sisters suddenly arose and, moving 
toward each other, began shaking hands ! This, 
of course, arrested the preaching, and the exer- 
cise became general. Not long afterward, we 
were favored with a most glorious revival. The 
Church was greatly quickened, and many sinners 
converted. So far as could be ascertained the 
work was thorough. It was a pleasing sight to 
see husbands and wives, who had been united 
by me in holy matrimony, rising up and, arm in 
arm, coming forward to the altar for prayer, 
thus devoting their young married life to the 
Lord. 

We had no foreign help in these special serv- 
ices. Gospel truth, in variety, was preached 
with sincerity and earnestness, under the guid- 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



ance of the Holy Spirit. Entire sanctification, 
as the Christian privilege and duty, and eternal 
punishment awaiting the wicked, were plainly 
set forth in Scripture language. God was 
pleased to affix His seal to the ministrations of 
the sanctuary, in the conversion of sinners and 
the sanctification of believers. 

The revival had features which were strik- 
ingly illustrative of the presence of God's power, 
and also of Satanic opposition. This was made 
manifest in the testimony of the converts, and 
the persecuting spirit of the ungodly. 

An incident will show the need of having 
young converts carefully instructed A lady, 
engaged in the millinery business, had been con- 
verted, very happily. One day she sent for me 
to advise her concerning temporal matters. Her 
class-leader had said to her that the making and 
selling of fashionable bonnets was incompatible 
with a holy life, and that she ought to seek some 
other mode of maintaining herself and family. 
This greatly disturbed her mind. My advice 
was, not to change her business, but to avoid as 
much as possible the countenancing of worldly 



WORKING FOR THE MASTER. 205 

fashions, " the lust of the flesh and the pride of 
life," and have reference to God's glory in all 
things. We must avoid laying upon Christ's 
disciples unwarrantable burdens. " His yoke is 
easy and His burden is light ;" enabling us, how- 
ever, as the possessors of "pure religion" to 
"keep ourselves unspotted from the world." 

My associations in this charge were pleasant, 
being constantly on the line of Christian frater- 
nity and good fellowship. The decision to 
serve this people a second year never occasioned 
a moment's regret. . Consenting to stand in my 
lot, subject to the authorities of the Church, with 
a comparatively small salary, in the face of a 
more tempting offer, gave me unalloyed satis- 
faction ; and the receipts of that second year 
made up for the deficiencies of the first. In 
addition, the large ingathering of souls crown- 
ing my humble efforts was higher remuneration 
than thousands of gold and silver. 

In the spring of 1354, Conference was held 
in New Brunswick, N. J. During the session, 
about the middle of April, there was a fall of 
snow to the depth of nine inches. My home was 



206 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



with my old and much valued friend, " John 
Helm," and we had sweet fellowship. The 
appointment assigned me was Keyport, N. J. 

About two months after entering upon this 
new field, the husband of my daughter, John 
Ross, of Staten Island, died. His wife and in- 
fant daughter came to live with us. Thus, son 
and daughter, each sorely bereaved, made a part 
of our household. Although the death of their 
loved companions was so full of joy and tri- 
umph, they refused to be comforted. We en- 
deavored to cheer them with the blessed prom- 
ises of Christianity, and by constantly holding 
them up to our Heavenly Father's throne. The 
people were kind, contributing, according to 
their ability, to our support. 

My afternoon appointment was at " Bethany," 
about two miles from Keyport. Itinerating 
on foot was still the order, affording opportuni- 
ties for communion with Heaven, in meditation 
and prayer. 

Keyport was visited with a powerful revival, 
during the first year of my pastorate. " Holy 
women," as well as men, were good helpers in 



WORKING FOR THE MASTER. 



207 



the work. Their experience, testimony and 
prayers were highly spiritual and effectual, pre-, 
vailing with both God and man. Great numbers 
were converted and added to the Church. 

At the Conference, which was held in 
Newark in 1855, it was deemed best to continue 
my pastoral relation to the Keyport charge, 
another year. The tide of prosperity which had 
set in upon us was graciously continued. 
A large number of those who were received on 
probation in the winter were candidates for bap- 
tism. A meeting, to ascertain their preferences 
as to mode, was held. I also preached a ser- 
mon on the subject, showing that there are 
three modes open to individual choice, accord- 
ing to Bible teaching, and the provisions of our 
Church discipline. In the use of any one of them 
there might be "the answer of a good con- 
science," Christ not having restricted us in this 
matter. The candidates were instructed that 
God, and not man, had to do with their con- 
science. My part was to administer the ordi- 
nance according to the mode which they might 
select, in fulfilment of my ordination vows. 



208 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



Nine chose immersion ; three, pouring ; and the 

remainder, sprinkling. 

On a certain Sabbath, we assembled at a suit- 
able place, near the wharf, to administer the 
ordinance, in the presence of hundreds gathered 
to witness the solemn scene. Rev. J. M. Tuttle 
assisted on the occasion, immersing the nine as 
they were conducted into the water by myself. 
This baptismal occasion, apparently, made deep 
impressions upon the gathered multitude. God 
has invariably given the approving sign while 
baptizing infants or adults, whether by sprink- 
ling, pouring, or immersion. The outward 
sign and seal, as given in the sacred ordinance, 
are important ; but the inward, spiritual grace 
signified thereby, is of infinitely more import- 
ance — the baptism of the Holy Ghost. 



CHAPTER X. 



THE GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM. — LIFE AND POWER. 

" But go thou and preach the kingdom of God." — Luke, 
ix. 60. 

Keyport, situated on the Raritan Bay, was, 
at the time of my sojourn there, a small town, 
giving, however, good promise of future growth. 
Its inhabitants were largely engaged in the 
oyster -trade, and the adjacent country was devoted 
chiefly to the cultivation of fruit, large and 
small, for the New York market. The steam- 
boat, well-laden with the products of both land 
and water, made regular trips to the great 
metropolis. It was pleasant, occasionally, to 
visit the city, and I invariably received courte- 
ous treatment from the captain and the officers, 
My very kind-hearted people were not unmind- 
ful of their pastor when gathering and dispos- 
14 [209] 



2IO 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



ing of their crops — and my salary had risen to 
the encouraging sum of four hundred dollars ! 

Our house of worship having become too 
small, a subscription was started for the build- 
ing of a more commodious one. This enter- 
prise was completed under the pastorate of my 
successor, Rev. R. S. Harris. 

Our friends in Keyport were numerous, 
sociable, and kind. To attempt to name them 
would seem invidious, and the catalogue would 
be imperfect. We had among us living Christians, 
actively co-operating in the Lord's work. The 
revival influences of the former year still rested 
upon the congregation. At times there were 
divine manifestations in the meetings, not to be 
forgotten. Once, it was thought, that a super- 
natural brightness filled the church, while we 
were bowed in silent prayer. It really appeared 
so to me, but I did not make it a matter of 
special remark. Others have freely spoken of 
it. It was followed by wonderful displays of 
saving grace. Some facts are worthy of mention 
in this connection. 

A hardened sinner was deeply convicted of 



THE GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM. 



211 



his sins, being penetrated with the thought that 
God is just and true, and that He will inevitably 
punish the wicked, eternally, according to the 
declaration of His Word. His distress was so 
great that he could neither eat nor sleep, for a 
number of days. He came to see me to be com- 
forted, telling of his deep distress. I told him 
that his being thus wrought upon by the Spirit 
of God, giving him to see the " exceeding sinful- 
ness of sin " afforded me great joy. At this, he 
broke out into bitter crying, saying, " I came to 
you, brother Scarlett, to get some comfort, and 
you make me feel worse than ever." " Brother," 
I replied, " I hope you will never find rest until 
you realize it by faith in Jesus." That night he 
was brought to rejoice greatly in the God of his 
salvation. He was more than slightly healed, 
A man who had "a name to live, being yet 
dead," in a popular evangelical Church, was 
accustomed with his wife to attend our meetings, 
and was apparently seriously exercised. Call- 
ing upon him one day, I found him reading 
" The Converted Infidel" a book which I had 
written while living in Red Bank. My con- 



212 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



version and Christian experience narrated there- 
in, interested him so much as to lead him to 
come to hear me preach. One night, after the 
sermon, the altar was crowded with penitents. 
He was urged personally by me " to make his call- 
ing and election sure." He said, "Do you think 
I ought to go forward for prayers?" "Yes ;" I 
replied. He went and bowed at the front seat, 
the altar being full. A night or two afterwards 
he was happily converted, and spoke with 
power " words of truth and soberness." His 
wife was transported with joy. He united with 
the Church, lived for God, and in a short time, 
died in the Christian faith. Are there not men 
and women in the Methodist Church, also, who 
were never truly converted ? Yea, verily. 

The proper instruction of seekers of salva- 
tion, and young con verts, by those experimental- 
ly qualified, is of vital importance. "To convert 
a sinner from the error of his way, is to save a 
soul from death." This tremendous truth 
should never be overlooked. The Bible does 
not mislead. The revealed doctrine of the 
eternal punishment of the wicked is so con- 



THE GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM. 



213 



nected with the justice of God, and His righteous 
government, that it cannot be ignored by 
Christians with impunity. Deep conviction 
for sin, accompanied by a dread of punishment 
divinely threatened, is never fruitless. He who 
brings them into such spiritual sorrowing on 
account of sin will show them its cure. The 
sacrifice of Christ will be accepted by faith, and 
they will iealize experimentally, that the grand 
atonement is more than an article in a human 
creed. The Holy Ghost is ready at all times to 
come into the heart, when there is " a believing 
to the saving of the soul." 

A young man, teaching school in our vicinity 
impressed me favorably, although some of the 
young and worldly-minded in the Church 
thought him too grave for a young man. His 
studious habits, sincerity, evangelical views of 
Gospel teaching, evinced in his exhortations and 
prayers, led me to think that God was about 
calling him into the ministry. On intimating 
this to him, his modesty of spirit and action con- 
vinced me that God had a commission for him. 
Accordingly, his case was brought before the 



214 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



Official Board, who licensed him to preach, and 
recommended him to be received on trial in the 
Annual Conference. Rev. Dr. J. S. Porter, 
presiding elder, gave him an appointment on his 
District, and the brother, Rev. Cornelius Clark, 
Jr., is now a popular and useful minister in the 
Newark Conference. How much we need men 
of deep experience in the things of God, to 
preach the Gospel — the Gospel of free and full 
salvation ! Unconverted theologians ; who have 
not the witness of a divine call to preach, 
though profoundly learned, do great harm. 

Two dear brethren living within the bounds 
of Key port charge, men of unswerving integ- 
rity, zeal, and uprightness, viz.: Rev. F. Murphy, 
a local preacher ; and S. Poland, an exhorter ; 
have gone to their heavenly home. They were 
regarded by all who knew them, even by the 
unconverted, as exemplary Christians. They 
entertained some quaint and strenuous notions 
respecting bodily mortification, as essential to 
entire sanctification, with which many good 
persons did not agree. But of their entire con- 
secration to God there was no question. 



THE GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM. 215 



An instance of the wrong treatment of a peni- 
tent sinner occurred in Keyport, similar to the 
one narrated in connection with my work in Red 
Bank. A worthy member of the Church related, 
in love-feast, that living in the country while 
young, he seldom heard preaching. There came, 
however, into the neighborhood, a Methodist 
preacher, under whose ministrations he was 
powerfully awakened. His feelings were so 
wrought upon that he feared he was going to 
die. A physician was called, who, after examin- 
ing him, prescribed bleeding as the required 
remedy. Accordingly, a bowlful of blood was 
drawn from the poor sinner without affording 
the least relief. Another Methodist preacher 
providentially came that way just then, and 
called at the house of the suffering one, bringing 
with him " The Good Physician." He prayed with 
Brother B., and pointed him to " the Lamb of 
God, which taketh away the sin of the world." 
Ever since he has been healthy and strong, hav- 
ing obtained forgiveness of sin and newness of 
life, through the once crucified but now risen 
Jesus. West Bloomfield was designated as my 



2l6 



TrfE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



next field of labor, at the Conference held in 
Trenton, in 1856. This charge embraced three ap- 
pointments, viz.: " Bloomfield," " West Bloom- 
field " (now Montclair), and " Speertown." Here 
again three services on the Sabbath had to be 
conducted, giving me much " bodily exercise," 
in itinerating, keeping off dyspeptic stagnation. 

At this Conference, the prudent, who "fore- 
see the evil and hide themselves," thought that 
the body was becoming too large. A plan of 
division was therefore arranged, and we became 
"two bands." The Northern division consti- 
tuted the " Neiua7-k Conference" while the South- 
ern retained the old name, "New Jersey Confer- 
ence." It was ordered, however, that they 
should meet in Conference fellowship once 
more before the formal separation. 

In removing from Keyport to West Bloom- 
field (now Montclair), some difficulties were 
encountered. My predecessor, Rev. Dayton F. 
Reed and his family, still occupied the parson- 
age, in consequence of sickness. Brother Reed 
was a man of deep piety and wonderful natural 
genius. Occasionally he preached with uncom- 



THE GOSPEL Of ±he kingdom. 



217 



mon ability and real eloquence. He had some 
eccentricities which, no doubt, detracted to some 
extent from his usefulness. He had, however, 
made ineffaceable spiritual impressions upon 
many in that place. He was the author of a 
book entitled " Duties, Tests, and Comforts," 
which the late Dr. Jno. McClintock, in his intro- 
duction, states to be, " terribly in earnest' 1 Dur- 
ing the few weeks that Bro. Reed's family were 
detained in the parsonage, we boarded in the 
family of the late brother Gorline Doremus, a 
man greatly 'beloved by the Christian communi- 
ty in which he lived. Both himself and excel- 
lent wife made it pleasant for us until we were 
settled in our home. 

The work of God was revived on the charge, 
and the fruit still remains. In the latter part of 
the summer, a family from New York boarded 
with brother Doremus. They were members of 
the Episcopal Church, and were wealthy. Some- 
times they worshiped with us on the Sabbath. 
Once, under the preaching, the power of the 
Spirit was manifested in unusual degree. The 
head of the family, a lawyer and true Christian, 



2l8 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



was greatly blessed. Being unable to keep it to 
himself, he praised God audibly, his joyous 
expressions being intermingled with tears and 
smiles. Some time afterward he met me in one 
of the public streets of New York, and em- 
braced me warmly, saying, " God bless you, my 
brother, I shall never forget you ! Come, go 
home with me ; I want to have a good, long talk 
with you about the blessed Christ, the Saviour 
of the world !" The people stared at him as though 
he had been a red-hot shouting Methodist ! 

The state of things on the charge warranted, 
as the brethren thought, a division into two 
appointments. At Conference, therefore," Bloom- 
field" and "West Bloomfield " charges were 
constituted. The session of the Conference, 
which was held in Newark, was especially in- 
teresting on account of the " Re-Union" of the 
two bodies, prior to separation into their respect- 
ive spheres. The presence of Rev. William 
Roberts, now of Oregon, and the late Rev. J. 
D. Blain, then of California, both formerly 
members of the New Jersey Conference, tended 
to heighten the interest of the occasion. 



THE GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM. 210 



It was my lot to return to " West Bloom- 
field," and God favored us with a prosperous 
year. 

About this time I received a note from New- 
ark, informing me of the failing health of my 
old friend, Mr. Prudence Ailing, ex-postmaster. 
Having been associated with him for more than 
seven years as assistant postmaster and letter- 
carrier, we were well acquainted. Sixteen years 
had elapsed since my entrance upon the itiner- 
ancy. Hearing of my being stationed in West 
Bloomfield, he desired to see me in view of his 
anticipated end. I found him penitent, and, 
while kneeling in prayer, he extended his hand 
to grasp mine. When we arose, he handed the 
Bible to me, requesting the reading of some ap- 
propriate portions. Then we kneeled together 
again and prayed. He said " he was a great 
sinner, but 'had been reading' the Bible for 
some time. And," he remarked, "I wanted to 
see you, John, because I can talk to you freely. 
You know / was a Deist, but now every time I 
try to pray, my mind seems to slip off on Christ ! 
And then, good feelings possess my heart. What 



220 THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



do you think of it? Am I getting weak- 
minded ! " " No, no, sir ; " I replied, " it seems 
to me you are converted." He wept freely, 
which was quite unusual for him. The last he 

said to me was, "/ am going to risk myself in the 
hands of Jesus Christ ! " In a day or two after, he 
died. 

Notwithstanding the goodness of God to me, 
we had sorrow at home. My son, David, it was 
apparent, would not live long. How sad we 
felt on his arrival, seeing his sunken eyes and 
emaciated, skeleton-like form ! He tried to 
smile and be cheerful, for the sake of his par- 
ents, sisters and little boy. The next morning, 
while we were engaged in family devotions, he 
burst into tears, saying, " You cannot appreciate 
my feelings at this moment, my dear parents, 
in reflecting on the past two years of my life 
spent among strangers, and I have backslidden 
somewhat. Instead of hearing the Bible read, 
and prayer offered at the family altar, cursing, 
low jokes, and jeering at religion have saluted 
my ear. O, how this family worship has reminded 
me of the happy days after my conversion, when 



THE GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM. 221 



at home with you ! I would like to impart the 
views of religion now realized by me, to all 
mankind. This scene is to me more impressive 
than the most logical arguments in support of 
Christianity. I have long thought of the fact 
that Christ's religion carries its own light. It 
is not dependent on talent or learning. It walks 
in its own way and shapes its own course. Jesus 
is its author and source, and the ' Captain of 
our salvation.' " 

In this happy frame David remained for six 
weeks, before his decease. His experiences pre- 
paratory to the solemn change were full of in- 
terest. He loved music, and was delighted to 
have Christians in his room, singing the songs 
of Zion. His conversation in the closing hours 
was very spiritual. He said, " that Jesus seemed 
to be near him, even in the night-watches/' He 
was free from suffering, retaining consciousness 
until the last. He said, " Father, I have the 
witness of my own soul's life, and the presence 
of the Spirit of God within me, revealing to me 
the knowledge of Jesus." I asked him once, 
" What was that talking in your room last 



222 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



night — you had no watchers with you — who 
talked aloud ?" He replied, " I did — I was 
talking with Jesus, telling him I was so un- 
worthy, and praising Him for His mercy to 
me!" He was reconciled to God, although 
having murmured at the removal of his com- 
panion. He died in great peace, October 17th, 
1857. The triumph over sin and Satan in his 
death, through Christ, was a great consolation 
to his parents. 

His obituary, published in the " Christian 
Advocate," by Rev. John I. Morrow, who offi- 
ciated at his funeral, contains some facts that 
will not be out of place in this connection, as 
true religion makes its possessors die well. 

" David A. Scarlett, son of Rev. John Scar- 
lett, of Newark Conference, died at West Bloom- 
field, X. J., at the residence of his father, Oct. 
17th, aged 31. The Church at Madison, X. J., 
was associated with his dearest recollections. 
Here, in the Spring of 1848, during the ministry 
of his father, he gave his heart to the Saviour. 
Here he was consecrated to God in baptism ; 
here he entered the communion of the Church ; 



THE GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM. 223 



here, in February, 1850, he was joined in matri- 
mony to MaryJane Thompson, a member also of 
the M. E. Church. And here, in the providence of 
God, in the month of October, 1853, he stood a 
bereaved widower. Bowed down with grief, as 
he then was, he acknowledged the hand of God 
in his bereavement, and in meek submission to 
the Divine will. Humility was a prominent 
trait in his character. Two things he never lost 
sight of — the largeness of God's grace, and his 
own unworthiness. A short time before his de- 
cease he said to his father, ' If ever you make 
allusion to me, when you attempt to illustrate 
the power of saving grace, do not tell the people 
that I was good, but that the Lord was good 
to me. In my wanderings from Him, how 
sweetly did He chastise me, till He brought me 
back again !' He left an only son, but not 
without a pious father's counsel and prayers. 
One morning he called the child into his room, 
and gave him his Bible, with his family record ; 
and, said he, ' Now, my dear boy, I give you 
this book for you to read when you grow old 
enough. Try to remember the advice of your 



224 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



dying father, who is going to heaven.' He then 
implored God's blessing on the life of the 
bereaved orphan. His final parting with his 
parents and two sisters was affecting beyond 
description. In compliance with his dying re- 
quest, his remains were brought to Madison for 
interment. We followed his body to its silent 
abode, where it rests by the side of his com- 
panion, in hope of a glorious resurrection/' 

After passing through this sore trial I real- 
ized an increase of spiritual power. It brought 
me nearer to God. The world seemed to me 
more empty, compared with eternal realities. 

My call to the Gospel ministry rested upon 
me with increased weight. More than ever it 
appeared to be the wisest, safest, and most 
reasonable course, to consecrate all to God. 
This is intimately connected with the turning of 
sinners unto the Lord. Was not this the pur- 
pose of God in leading me into the fiery fur- 
nace ? God makes no mistakes in His provi- 
dential dealings. We may think better results 
would follow if our inclinations and conveni- 
ence were consulted. But God knows better 



THR GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM. 225 

than we what is best. Having held meetings 
with special reference to the revival of God's 
work, commencing about Christmas, all the 
members were requested to unite with me in 
private prayer, each day, for the outpouring of 
the Spirit. On a certain Sabbath, not long after, 
God was eminently nigh, and Christ was very 
precious. After sermon, I stated that at the 
evening service seekers would be invited to the 
altar. To my disappointment, when evening 
came, it stormed so violently that the church 
was not opened. About eight o'clock, a knock 
at the parsonage door was heard. On opening 
it, four young persons, drenched with rain, 
entered. The wonder was what had brought 
them there under such circumstances. The first 
thought was, that they had come to be married. 
They were seated in the parlor only a short time, 
however, before they burst into tears. On in- 
quiring what was the matter, they said, " they 
had agreed together to start that night to seek 
their soul's salvation. And, as there was no 
service in the church, they mutually resolved to 
gome and ask my help in the parsonage." After 
*5 



226 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



reading a portion of Scripture, giving them the 
best instruction I could, and praying with them, 
they retired with strengthened resolutions to be 
the Lord's. In a short time thereafter, they all 
rejoiced in God as their Saviour. This was the 
commencement of a gracious divine visitation, 
continuing all winter. The number of conver- 
sions, so far as ascertained, was vinety-nine, all 
uniting with us in Church fellowship. 

This revival was not marked by outward 
manifestations, specially, as on some former oc- 
casions. This remark is not intended as an ex- 
pression of opinion as to whether comparative 
silence, or noise, is preferable in revivals. God's 
Spirit should have supreme control in his mani- 
fold operations, untrammeled by human agency. 
In the present instance, the convictions of peni- 
tents were pungent, and the conversions genuine. 
We had not much foreign help, our members as 
far as possible being brought into exercise. I 
preached nearly every evening for four months, 
believing then, as now, that revival-work will 
be more solid if guided by the Word of God in 
preaching, exhortation and prayer. 



THE GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM. 227 



In my last sermon, before leaving for Con- 
ference, the determination to take nothing back 
of the whole series of Gospel truths delivered 
to them, was distinctly declared. Those desir- 
ing to contribute to the support of the Church 
were offered an opportunity to do so. Thirty 
dollars of the amount were given by a promi- 
nent Presbyterian, notwithstanding my Armin- 
ian teaching. My views, as between Calvinism 
and Arminianism, have ever been distinctly an- 
nounced, yet with fervent charity toward those 
of opposite views. Some of the best Christians 
with whom I have ever been acquainted, were 
Calvinists. 

Hereafter, in the " bright beyond," we shall 
see clearly, and be joined in indissoluble bonds 
of holy love and eternal delight. 

" There, names and sects and parties fall, 
And Jesus Christ is all in all." 



CHAPTER XL 



GOD IN THE ITINERANCY. 

" That the excellency of the power may be of. God, and 
not of us." — II. Cor. iv. 7. 

The first session of the " Newark Con- 
ference," was held in Morristown in the Spring 
of 1858, Bishop Ames presiding. The field as- 
signed to me was the Second Church, Rahway, 
N. J., in accordance with the request of the 
officiary. When this desire was expressed to 
me, personally, before the Conference, th& 
response made was, that my destiny was in the 
hands of the Bishop, and if he' appointed me to 
Rahway it would be acceptable. 

On our arrival, the Rahway friends gave us a 
kind reception, providing a bountiful repast. 
Hearty greetings to a new pastor are welcome, 
removing all restraint and offering him needed 
encouragement. The Rahway people were sin- 
[228] 



GOD IN THE ITINERANCY. 



229 



cere in their friendship, generous in hospitality, 
steadily co-operating with, us in the Lord's 
work. Of course, for the time, we missed the 
revival influence prevailing at " Montclair," 
and the singing and warm-hearted testimony of 
the converts, which are so helpful to a Gospel 
ambassador. 

The Church at Rah way was larger than 
those* previously occupied — the congregations 
were large and intelligent. Pious members of 
the " Society of Friends " often worshiped with 
us, and at times would give flaming exhorta- 
tions at the close of the sermon. This accorded 
with my own feelings, and was acceptable to 
the congregation. 

The Prayer and Class meetings were well 
attended and quite enjoyable. An eccentric 
brother, on one occasion, testified, that he had 
been for some time dying unto sin, but was not 
dead yet. There had been a crucifying of the 
old man and his deeds — he had kept him hanging 
on the cross, but somehow managed to bring 
him his dinner every day. The dinner-bring- 
ing, nourishing the carnal mind, thus honestly 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



and strangely expressed, was not doubted by 
those who heard the testimony. Alas, for us, 
this quaint witness has many imitators ! 

In the summer of this year a movement was 
made by the pastor and members of the First 
Church to organize a third. A meeting was 
called and a number deposited their Church 
certificates with the new organization. The 
pastor being called to another field of labor, the 
project failed and was, in fact, premature. The 
old Church was burdened with debt, and the 
full strength of the membership was needed to 
meet the obligations. Some who had gone into 
the new organization now proposed to unite 
with us, but knowing the circumstances of "the 
mother Church " they were advised to return. 
We closed the first year in Rahway under the 
divine benediction, and in the hope that its 
labors had not been in vain in the Lord. 

In 1859 the Newark Conference convened in 
Haverstraw, N. Y., Bishop Simpson presiding. 
I was taken ill during the session. The atten- 
tions of Rev. James Ayars were so kind and 
brotherly as to call for grateful mention. A 



GOD IN THE ITINERANCY. 



warm friendship was then enkindled, continu- 
ing in after years. Brother Ayars was one of the 
ablest ministers in the Conference, holding 
steadily during his career to the doctrines and 
institutions of the Church. 

It was deemed best by " the powers that 
be " to return me to Rahway for another year. 
While my relations with the Church were entire- 
ly pleasant, there were some things militating 
against our happiness and success that year. 
Political strife prevailed throughout the country 
— we were on the eve of the dreadful civil war. 
When the telescope of faith is lifted to behold 
Christ, and Him only, other things will be prop- 
erly viewed. But when something else attracts, 
outside of Christ, truth is abandoned. 

The trustees built a parsonage this year on a 
lot adjoining the church. Being appointed on 
the "Building Committee," I suggested that a 
"pastor's study " be included in the plan, which 
was adopted. The minister needs such a place, 
with proper appointments, for communion with 
God, holy meditation, and preparation for the 
pulpit. 



232 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



Despite the outward agitation, and various 
unpropitious circumstances, we were favored 
with some visitations of the Holy Spirit. Sinners 
were converted and believers quickened. Some 
who were then united with us in Christian 
activities are sleeping in the grave. Brothers 
C. C. Winans and S. N. Bebout, were then pro- 
mising young members of the Church. They 
were faithful in attending upon the public and 
social means of grace. They maintained an 
unblemished Christian character and life, and 
were modest in spirit and deportment. They 
are now useful members of the Newark Con- 
ference, occupying honorable positions. 

The third session of the Newark Conference 
was held in Hackettstown, N. J., of which 
Bishop Scott was president, At its close, the 
order was given for me to take the pastoral 
oversight of " Dover and Millbrook Charge. " 
This field afforded ample scope for all my 
ministerial gifts, under the helpful influences of 
the blessed Holy Spirit. I was not altogether a 
stranger in Dover, having preached there oc- 
casionally. Devoted friends lent their aid, and 



GOD IN THE ITINERANCY. 



233 



the work of the Lord was joyous and successful. 
War rumors began at this time to portend com- 
ing bloodshed, a collision between the North 
and South seeming to be " manifest destiny.'* 

Mutual hatred, strengthening for years, tended 
to arouse the passions and lead to the dread con- 
flict. But, notwithstanding the clashing and 
clamor of political parties, our Church enjoyed 
an outpouring of the Spirit. A number were 
converted, and the membership was spiritually 
refreshed. Many will remember the powerful 
baptism received at the u Watch meeting" 

Rev. C. S. Vancleve was presiding elder of 
our Morristown District, and shared largely in 
the confidence of the people. Unlike myself, 
he was fond of horses, and drove a span of 
spirited ponies over his district. On one occa- 
sion he stopped at the house of a very pious, 
aged man, the father of one of the present mem- 
bers of our Conference. Father A , who was 

a very devout man, insisted that the elder should 
spend several days at his house. By associa- 
tion of ideas, this revives the recollection of an 
incident connected with the early ministry of 



234 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



Brother Vancleve. Father A — — was, as above 
stated, deeply devoted, and zealous for the 
honor of God and Methodism. His every 
breath was prayer ; his whole life was character- 
ized by purity, humility and fidelity. Brother 
Vancleve was sent as preacher in charge to 
Asbury Circuit, within the bounds of which 
this aged man resided. The new minister was 
comfortably attired, and had a good horse and 
carriage. He inquired for the house of Father 
A — — on reaching the circuit. Driving up to 
his door, the old gentleman came out, surveying 
the preacher from head to foot, giving him this 
salute : "Are you our preacher ?" Brother Van- 
cleve answered, " Yes ; can I have my horse fed 
here ?" The reply was, " You look very fine for 
a Methodist preacher ; you wear a fine cloak, 
and your horse and carriage are very fine ! 99 
" Can I have my horse fed ? " again inquired the 
itinerant — "it is nearly noon." "Come in the 
house first — I want to hear you pray !" said the 
venerable man. Entering the parlor, Brother 

Vancleve was introduced to Sister A . A 

Bible was laid on his lap, and he was re- 



GOD IN THE ITINERANCY. 



235 



quested to read and pray with the family. O, 
what a spirit of prayer was poured upon the 
preacher at that time ! The old soldier of 
Christ was satisfied with the prayer — and told 
his guest to sit still and his horse should be fed. 
He held on to the good pleader at the Throne 
several days, and a lasting friendship was begun. 
Such were some of the trials to which itinerants 
in days of yore were subjected. A spirit of 
earnest prayer was regarded as a test of the 
call to the ministry. How would it be now if 
every young minister entering upon a pastoral 
charge were required to pass through such an 
ordeal ? 

After this pleasant digression, I am called to 
record a painful family affliction to which we 
were called, in the illness and sudden departure 
of my beloved daughter, Sarah. She was pros- 
trated in the early part of January and died the 
same month. But in the midst of our grief we 
were consoled by her closing Christian testi- 
mony, as well as by her exemplary Christian 
life preceding it. The Dover friends were 
sympathetic in this bereavement, striving to 



236 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



do all in their power to aid and comfort their 
sorrowing pastor and his family. 

The Annual Conference of 1861 was held in 
the city of Rah way. . It was pleasant to have 
fellowship with the friends of former years. 
Here, for the last time, we had the presence of 
our beloved ministerial associate, Rev. John L. 
Lenhart, chaplain in the navy, w T ho went down 
in the ship " Cumberland " to a watery grave. 
" The authorities " were pleased to commission 
the writer to a second year's service in Dover. 

Slavery w 7 as hateful in the eyes of God. It 
was a cancer on the body politic. Infidel-aboli- 
tionism was a knife in the hand of Satan to cut 
out the festering sore. I began to see how 
Providence, through this war, as by the thunder- 
storm, would purify the atmosphere. Ideas in 
our civilization, derived from Bible teaching 
and Christianity, are more powerful, if you allow 
them time, than the sword of the mighty, and 
the artillery of the nation. God-begotten ideas 
will yet roll an influence under the reign of 
Christ, like a mighty flood, over all the earth. 

While free from anxiety on account of the 



GOD IN THE ITINERANCY. 



237 



progress of the war, there was reserved for my 
home-circle another cup of sorrow. My eldest 
daughter, Mrs. M. E. Ross, borne down with 
grief at the death of her sister, in eight months 
was wasted by disease, and died. She left us in 
the clear light of joyous Christian hope. Her 
triumphant departure was a wonder to those 
who stood around her dying couch. In full pos- 
ession of all her faculties, having refused opiates, 
she was without pain of body or mind. She 
urged me to continue preaching the whole Gos- 
pel, with accustomed plainness, saying, it had 
been profitable to her. Such words as these 
dropped from her lips : " My future is all filled 
with glory, and this is all through Jesus Christ, 
who died and rose again for me. I was never 
happier in my life. Mother, don't weep for me, I 
shall see Jesus shortly, and you will not be long 
out of heaven — we shall know each other there !" 

While friends stood around weeping, she 
was happier than . all. Looking into her face, 
I said to myself, " Is not the Spirit of Truth aid- 
ing her to testify in this remarkable manner ? 
Could the hope of seeing Jesus, husband, bro- 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



ther and sister, be a tantalizing one while dying ? 
Impossible!" It was, undoubtedly, a foreshad- 
owing of good things to be realized. She is now 
joyous in contemplating that true religion never 
inspired false anticipations. 

Amid all our sorrows we had cause for grat- 
itude. None could have been kinder than our 
Dover friends. And although our children were 
all dead, we had good hope of meeting them in 
heaven. Three had died in infancy, and three 
at adult age, enjoying experimental religion. 
After the death of my daughter, I had a deeper 
experience in the things of God, and a stronger 
love for Christ and His cause. 

We assembled in Conference at Newton, 
N. J., in 1862. My appointment was to 
Madison, N. J. Thirteen years had inter- 
vened since my former pastorate here. " Green 
Village," " Chatham," and" Whippany," then 
included, had become separate charges. Many 
former associates had passed away. But these 
added years of pastoral life in familiar scenes, 
were pleasant. John E. Hancock, converted 
during my first pastorate, had, with others, 



GOD IN THE ITINERANCY. 239 

been faithful, and now his way was opening to 
the ministry. Being duly recommended, he be- 
came a member of the Newark Annual Con- 
ference, and is pursuing a useful career. 

A stranger came to Madison who was shortly 
afterward prostrated by consumption. I visited 
him, requesting the privilege of reading the 
Scriptures and praying with him, but he refused. 
Having learned that he was once a reputable 
member of the Baptist Church, I asked, Did not 
Jesus Christ once wash you in His own blood ? At 
that he burst into tears, became a true penitent, re- 
ceived Christ anew, and died a truimphant death. 
Wisdom from above is needed to win souls. 

The beautiful situation, and salubrious 
air of Madison rendered our residence there 
exceedingly pleasant, and the people loved the 
old " land-marks," and were not averse to the 
praising of God "with joyful lips." 

The church at Madison was unfavorably 
located, but it has been replaced by a new and 
handsome edifice. I trust that eternity will 
show that my double pastorate among the 
good people of Madison was not fruitless. 



CHAPTER XII. 



CLOSING ITINERANT LABORS — SUNSHINE IN 

RETIREMENT. 

" For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the 
counsel of God." — Acts xx. 27. 

At the Conference of 1864, held in Paterson, 
I was appointed tolrvington, and returned there 
for a second year at the Conference of 1865, 
which met in Elizabeth. Irvington, being a 
suburb of Newark, was an agreeable location 
for me. There were five denominations rep- 
resented in the place, and our own congrega- 
tion being quij;e intelligent, opened a promising 
field for proclaiming the everlasting Gospel. 
With two of the denominations, the Universal- 
ists and Unitarians, or " Christians" not being 
on the line of evangelical Christianity, but little 
Christian fellowship could be enjoyed. It was 
my aim, however, always to treat them with 
[240J 



CLOSING ITINERANT LABORS. 241 



becoming charity, avoiding controversy, which, 
if conducted with ambitious motives, or to show 
polemical skill, is never profitable. 

The two years spent in Irvington, while not 
free from some annoyances on account of 
the heterodox elements referred to, were 
nevertheless crowned with the divine bless- 
ing. The preaching of Christ as a Divine 
Saviour, and the eternal doom awaiting those 
who reject Him, was attended with saving 
effects. Among the converts was a promising 
youth, who arose one evening in the congrega- 
tion and came forward for prayers. At the close 
of the service he publicly declared his purpose 
not to rest until he found Christ. Shortly after 
he found the blessed Saviour while earnestly 
pleading for salvation in his bed-room, about 
midnight. Uniting with the Church, and show- 
ing good fidelity, he was at length called into 
the ministry. That youth, now Rev. J. A, 
Owen, is in charge of the First Church, Orange, 
and is my pastor — we have sweet fellowship 
together. It was during my residence in this 
place that we received the doleful tidings of the 
16 



242 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



assassination of President Lincoln, shocking 
this, as it did every community in our broad 
land. When, on the morning of April 15th, 
1865, the newspapers came to us draped in 
mourning, containing the dread announcement, 
every heart was sad, and deep shadows settled 
upon all habitations. The admiration of "the 
honest President" was akin to the veneration for 
"Washington, the Father of his Country/' The 
love of Lincoln was genuine, enshrining him in 
millions of human hearts. 

About this time there were some occurrences 
of interest in connection with the cause of holi- 
ness. Rev. L. R. Dunn, pastor of the Central 
Church, Newark, who had not altogether sympa- 
thized with the teachings of Mrs. Phoebe Palmer, 
had received the blessing of perfect love, and 
openly confessed it. Rev. G. Hughes, of the 
New Jersey Conference, had also, during a visit 
to England, been brought into the light through 
the instrumentality of Dr. and Mrs. Palmer, and 
was witnessing to the great salvation. Rev. J. 
S. Inskip of New York, who had by a gracious 
Providence been led into the marvelous liberty 



I 



CLOSING ITINERANT LABORS. 243 



of full salvation, was assisting Brother Dunn in 
special services in his Church, and during their 
continuance the pastor, a number of his offi- 
ciary, and many others, tasted the joy of perfect 
love. These brethren are now actively engaged 
in promoting this great work, by voice and pen, 
Rev. J. S. Inskip, editing the " Christian Stand- 
ard ;" Rev. G. Hughes, associated with Dr. 
Palmer, in editing the " Guide to Holiness;" 
and Rev. Dr. L. R. Dunn has written a number 
of excellent works on the glorious theme. How 
wonderful are the ways of Providence ! 

At the Conference of 1869, in Washington, 
N. J., Bishop Baker, who presided, announced 
my name as pastor of the church at " North 
Belleville," now " Franklin," to which place I was 
returned for a second and third year, at the Con- 
ferences held in 1867, on Staten Island, and 1868, 
in Plainfield. This was a pleasant rural charge, 
located in a beautiful section of country, and 
having in its membership devoted followers of 
Christ. The greatest personal blessing within 
mortal reach is, full salvation by faith. The 



244 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



richest privilege is, preaching the glorious 
Gospel of Christ. 

During the year 1866 the "Centennial of 
Methodism " was appropriately celebrated. It 
was fitting that this form of Christianity, ex- 
pressively designated " Christianity in interest" 
should review the wonderful Divine dealings 
characterizing the first hundred years of its 
history. Throughout the length and breadth of 
the land there were interesting services, and a 
large amount of money was raised for benevo- 
lent purposes, missions, the endowment of col- 
leges and other objects. 

It should be observed, however, that descent 
from an honored Methodist ancestry does not 
necessarily make such descendants worthy. sons 
of worthy sires. God-made Methodists; or, widen- 
ing the thought, Christians, are only in the true 
" Apostolical Succession." True Christianity is 
not received from men. It is by the direct opera- 
tions of the Spirit, through the teaching of 
Christ, His example, atonement, and intercession. 
And whatever men attempt to add to the system, 
in deference to taste, wealth, culture or ambi- 



CLOSING ITINERANT LABORS. 



245 



Hon, only mars the Divine workmanship. To 
make it popular with the world would destroy 
it. I trust that the living Spirit, still prevalent 
among us, thank God ! will increase and perpet- 
uate its working power. The crow T n jewel of 
Methodism is holiness of heart and life. One of 
the brightest and most hopeful signs of the 
times is the growing recognition of this jewel- 
brightness of the " Central truth of Christianity " 
by the several branches of the Evangelical 
Church. The prospect is that the Methodist 
Church can have no doctrinal or experimental mon- 
opoly in this regard. The old truth, old as the Bible, 
" Holiness to the Lord," and its experimental 
verification in the soul of the believer, is the com- 
mon heritage of the whole household of faith. 

During my connection with the good people 
of Franklin, as in other places, it was my aim 
to spread Scriptural holiness by pulpit dis- 
courses, consistent living and humble testimony. 
Some witnesses to the truth were raised up. 

At the Conference of 1869, held in Newark, 
the charge allotted to me was " East Newark/' 
where I continued three years, being reappoint- 



246 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



ed at the Conferences of 1870 and 187 1. The 
Society in East Newark was small, having only 
forty-five members. But they generously ap- 
propriated for the pastor's support seven hun- 
dred dollars, which was $100 more than ever 
before received. Despite "the day of small 
things," the Lord carried forward His work, 
graciously. Precious fellowship was enjoyed, 
among others, with a family belonging to the 
"Society of Friends." They were cultured, re- 
fined, and strictly moral. They worshiped with 
us and brought their children to the Sabbath- 
school, each of the parents teaching a class. 
The wife requested me to visit her and converse 
on spiritual matters. Her mind was seriously 
exercised. She was directed to Christ, and soon 
was a bright witness of His salvation. The next 
Sabbath evening, just before the sermon, her 
husband came and knelt at the altar, asking 
prayer. He was quickly converted, and made 
as happy as his wife. They both united with 
our Church, and it has been my joy to hear that 
"the converted Friends" were among the best 
members. 



CLOSING ITINERANT LABORS. 



247 



The Conference of 187 1 was privileged to 
hold its session in Morristown, in the handsome 
new church which had been erected, largely due 
to the liberality of the Hon. G. T. Cobb. Thir- 
teen years had elapsed since the previous Con- 
ference in this place, the population had largely 
increased and there were many signs of improve- 
ment. My sojourn was with Brother George 
W. King, and my room mate was Rev. J. O. 
Rogers, a congenial companion, who, like my- 
self, was of cheerful disposition. Knowing his 
peculiarities, and not unconscious of my own, I 
prepared my mind to avoid improper hilarity. 
One night, after we had retired, seeking "tired 
nature's sweet restorer," Brother Rogers in- 
quired if I knew why we had been thus associ- 
ated, to which my reply was, that it was doubt- 
less on account of our recognized friendship., 
" No, no ; Brother John," he responded, " it is be- 
cause of my sedate disposition and to keep you in 
order!" My answer was, " Brother Rogers, do 
you think that is the only mistake ever made by 
the Conference ?" We had a somewhat protracted 
season of converse, until, at length, sleep came 



248 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOt. 



to our relief. Some rigid legalist, or one tinged 
with Pharisaic selfishness, given to a " sad coun- 
tenance," might have indulged criticism. But, 
true religion is full of sunshine, while opposed 
to " foolish talking and jesting." My cheerful 
temper has kept sunshine around my heart, even 
down to old age. 

Returning from Conference for a third year's 
employ in East Newark, I endeavored to devote 
myself to the one work of the minister, soul- 
saving. There was need of much pastoral 
visiting as well as preaching. Speculation was 
rife, having a damaging influence ; Sabbath 
desecration prevailed, and intemperance was 
working ruin to many — it is a curse to mind, 
body, and soul, everywhere, for time and eter- 
nity. The Church was increased, numerically 
and spiritually, and willing and generous con- 
tributions were made for its support. In our 
Board of Stewards we had two sisters who were 
true helpers in the office. Among our converts 
was a Roman Catholic. He came to the parson- 
age one evening, handing me a note from Rod- 
man Backus, of St. Luke's Church, Newark, 



CLOSING ITINERANT LABORS. 249 



stating his trustworthiness and desire to be a 
Christian. We knelt in prayer together. After 
awhile he said he thought "he was gaining 
ground." He attended our meetings, was hap- 
pily converted, and united with the Church. His 
wife continued in the Romish faith, but did not 
persecute her husband. Being taken sick, I 
visited him, finding him very happy. He 
shouted, Glory be to Jesus, earnestly. His wife 
said, " Don't go on so, Thomas, your Saviour 
don't need that loud outcry." But he continued 
to praise the Lord. The last I heard of Thomas 
was, that he was holding on his way, enjoying 
the confidence of the Church. 

At the Conference held in Hackettstown, 
N. J., in the spring of 1872, I received my last 
regular appointment, viz., to " Somerville" Thus, 
at seventy years of age, the thirty-second year of 
this blessed and holy service was completed. 

Somerville was a small charge, on the Raritan, 
having just been separated from other appoint- 
ments. The people were mostly strangers, hav- 
ing only been there once, during the pastorate 
of Rev. C. Talley. Methodism was but feeble, 



250 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



the Reformed Church having long occupied the 
ground, and still swayed a commanding influ- 
ence. But we were not without spiritual fruit. 
The converts were, as we were able, nurtured in 
the faith of the Gospel. 

The last Quarterly Conference of the year 
was presided over by the late Rev. Dr. J. T. 
Crane, presiding elder, and a unanimous request 
was made for my return. Dr. Crane had excel- 
lent traits of character. His purity, real friend- 
ship, and wise counsel, gave him a warm place 
in my heart. He was of service to me in my 
work. This acknowledgment is the more wel- 
come to my feelings, because we differed on 
some points, theologically. 

The closing of the last year of my itinerant 
career was peculiarly solemn. My connection 
with the Conference had continued for thirty- 
two years. Sickness had not kept me from 
the pulpit half-a-dozen times. Church matters, 
through the assistance of Divine grace, had 
been managed without any allegation of mal- 
administration, or the leaving of sores for 
other hands to heal. No complaint against me 



Closing itinerant labors. 251 

had ever been made at Conference, so lenient 
had my brethren been toward me. To God be 
the praise. Why then, under these circumstances, 
should my relation be changed to that of 
" supernumerary." 

The case stood thus : The measure of seventy 
years was well-nigh full. The people of any 
charge to which I might be appointed would 
naturally be discouraged in seeing in the pulpit 
an old, wrinkled, and gray-headed minister, and 
especially if a contiguous Church were favored 
with a fine-looking, young, and attractive min- 
ister. With this providential order, indi- 
cated on every hand, I had no quarrel. In 
the utmost serenity of mind, and with unshaken 
reliance upon the God who had for so many 
years graciously ordered my steps, I bowed to 
His will as then expressed. 

The Conference in 1873, was held in Port 
Jervis, N. Y., and, at my request, a supernum- 
erary relation was granted. I returned to 
East Newark to reside, mingling delightfully 
with former associates, and in true fellow- 
ship with those who had the pastoral oversight 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



of the Church, Rev. J. L. Hays and Rev. J. T. 
Cowan, brethren beloved in Christ. Under 
Brother Hays' administration a new Church was 
erected. 

The last three years of our stay in East 
Newark, now " Harrison," were times of tribu- 
lation. Here came in the assaults of Satan. 
Had I retired too soon from active service ? was 
the question presented. But my trust in God 
was unshaken, and the witness of His spirit un- 
clouded. 

Many calls were received to preach in differ- 
ent places. While assisting Rev. J. B. Faulks 
in special services in East Orange, Rev. J. J. 
Reed, of the First Church, Orange, called and 
solicited my aid, to which I assented. This visit 
was a very happy one. My home was with 
Hon. George J. Ferry, whose hospitality was 
hearty and munificent. Warm friendships were 
engendered while laboring with the good people 
of Orange. And, as a mission had been started 
at Williamsville, and it was thought I might be 
profitably employed in watching over that little 
flock, I was invited to take up my abode in 



CLOSING ITINERANT LABORS. 253 



Orange. Having a desire to work for God in 
some way, and this appearing like a Providen- 
tial opening to give me a small field to culti- 
vate, and association with kind and congenial 
friends, in my declining years, the proposal was 
joyfully accepted. My heart went out in thank- 
fulness to God that " a door of utterance was 
opened unto me." The Conference that spring 
was held in Halsey Street Church, Newark, a 
hallowed spot in my remembrance. After Con- 
ference we removed to Orange, and were com- 
fortably settled in a quiet home, the kind 
offices of dear friends who gathered around us, 
rendering it a happy retreat. It is my privilege 
once on the Sabbath to dispensethe Word of life 
to the little band at " Williamsville," who hear 
it gladly, and, as it appears, "grow thereby." 

Orange is now a beautiful, lively, and grow- 
ing city, magnificent in its surroundings, health- 
ful, and in every respect a charming place for 
residence. In, and around the city are villas of 
architectural taste and beauty. The roads and 
avenues are mostly macadamized. " Orange 
mountain" is commanding. The landscape 



-54 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



scenery is far-ranging, on a Clear day from 
" Eagle Rock." Who that has rambled through 
"Llewellyn Park" or been favored with a drive 
therein, has not been charmed? Its sloping 
curving avenues are deeply shaded by branch- 
ing trees of evergreen. It has dreamy solitudes 
sunnv spots, and fragrant flowers. Out of mimic 
lakes, sky-reflecting, gurgle streams of limpid 
water. Stately edifices with dewy lawns \w 
front grace the mountain-slopes. The dogwood 
trees in the distance seem, in the sunlight, like 
ragged patches of snow, hanging on the skirts 
of departing winter. " Llewellyn Park" is a 
delightful place for Christian meditation and 
communion with heaven. Many a pleasant ride 
have I enjoyed with my good friend and Brother 
Green, " Dolly" giving us naming commcitane 
on rapid transit, while we were snuffing the 
mountain breezes and gazing on the varied and 
captivating see aery. Bishop Janes said, a short 
time before his death, " that he had traveled 
much, but had never seen anything exceed 
ing the splendid prospects from Orange moun- 
tain !" 



CLOSING ITINERANT LABORS. 



255 



The Church Associations of Orange are 
very congenial. The pastors, Revs. J. J. Reed, 
J. H. Knowles, and J. A. Owen, with whom 
I have been related during the few years of 
my residence there, have endeared themselves 
to me, by their uniform kindness, courtesy, and 
Christly bearing. Brother Knowles is now 
the presiding elder of the district, and is esteemed 
very highly for his work's sake. There are 
some ripe Christians in Orange, fellowship with 
whom is exceedingly profitable To see them, 
cheerful, contented with their lot, with their faces 
Zionward, glowing with love and immortal 
hope, is indeed inspiring. Such thoughts have 
been 'aspired, specially, while looking into 
the age-furrowed faces of two model Christians 
in our midst, the venerable "John Nichol" 
now 97 ; and "David Coddington" past 84 years 
of age ; the former a Presbyterian ; the latter, a 
Methodist. They are brethren beloved, serving 
the one Christ. 

In closing this chapter, the thought creeps 
over me that / am an old man ! I am in my 
eightieth year and have been a Christian 



THE ITINERANT ON FOOT. 



forty-nine years. God has been very good to me, 
but I have been but " an unprofitable servant. " 
My health is excellent, and I take an increased 
interest in the prosperity of the Church. 

My one life of probation, to be exceeded by 
another of unchangeable character and destiny, 
will soon be past ! How long I have yet to live, 
awakens no anxiety. God will order my death 
at the right time, and my grave will be in the 
right place. " My times " and all my interests are 
in His hand. "There is an end, aud my expecta- 
tions will not be cut off." Grace leads to glory. 
The " God of all grace," in Jesus Christ, has 
surrounded me with goodness. He has hem- 
med me in all sides so that no evil can invade 
my spiritual premises, He will be the guide 
of my pilgrimage to its final goal. 

"There is a land that is fairer than day " — 
I expect to be an inhabitant, throughout the 
blissful round of eternal ages, after closing my 
eyes to all terrestrial scenes. 



THE END. 



